Red-throated Diver vs Great Northern Diver

In short

The Red-throated Diver (Gavia stellata) and Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer) are both large waterbirds, but they can be distinguished by size, plumage, and behavior. The Red-throated Diver is smaller and has a distinctive red throat patch during breeding, while the Great Northern Diver is larger with a more robust build and a black-and-white checkered back.

Identification tips

1. Size and Shape: Note the smaller size and more slender build of the Red-throated Diver compared to the bulkier Great Northern Diver. 2. Breeding Plumage: Look for the red throat patch on the Red-throated Diver during breeding season. 3. Plumage Pattern: The Great Northern Diver has a distinctive black-and-white checkered back, absent in the Red-throated Diver. 4. Vocalization: Listen for the melodic yodels of the Great Northern Diver and the harsher calls of the Red-throated Diver.

Size

The Red-throated Diver is smaller and more slender than the Great Northern Diver, which is larger and bulkier.

Plumage

The Red-throated Diver has a plain gray plumage with a red throat patch during breeding. In contrast, the Great Northern Diver features a striking black-and-white checkered back and a black head with a greenish sheen during breeding.

Behaviour

Red-throated Divers are central-place foragers, often flying between breeding and foraging areas. Great Northern Divers tend to stay within their large breeding lakes. Both species are diving birds, but the Red-throated Diver takes flight over shorter distances.

Habitat

Red-throated Divers breed in small arctic and boreal lakes, often in remote tundra regions. Great Northern Divers breed on larger oligotrophic lakes across Canada, Alaska, and parts of Europe, avoiding tundra.

Voice

The Red-throated Diver's call is described as cacophonous, whereas the Great Northern Diver is known for its melodic territorial yodels.