NikonGear'23

Images => Nature, Flora, Fauna & Landscapes => Topic started by: Randy Stout on September 18, 2025, 18:26:30

Title: Common Loon Yodel
Post by: Randy Stout on September 18, 2025, 18:26:30

This male common loon was giving their alert call ( called a yodel) because another loon was circling the lake and considering landing.  The males are very protective of their territory and try to reduce visitors, especially early in the breeding season.  They often spin around in a circle as the intruder circles the lake,  and I happened to be in a good spot to capture him.

D850. 600mm f/4 at f/5, 1/640 sec, ISO 1600.  The loons back is out of focus but also covered by water as he spins, causing the distortion.

A significant crop because of the distance away, but the D850 file held up rather nicely I think.

Title: Re: Common Loon Yodel
Post by: Øivind Tøien on September 18, 2025, 19:10:46

Wow, quite a view, one can almost see what he had for breakfast!! Well done and thanks for posting!

Title: Re: Common Loon Yodel
Post by: Bruno Schroder on September 18, 2025, 21:05:56

Wow indeed.

Title: Re: Common Loon Yodel
Post by: Ann on September 18, 2025, 23:26:31

Excellent! And possibly unique?
I have never seen a close-up shot of an open-beaked Loon before.

Title: Re: Common Loon Yodel
Post by: bobfriedman on September 19, 2025, 00:52:28

wow.. very nice!

Title: Re: Common Loon Yodel
Post by: Akira on September 19, 2025, 08:11:13

I enjoy this rare angle!  Thank you for sharing!

Title: Re: Common Loon Yodel
Post by: Thomas Stellwag on September 19, 2025, 11:16:54

I like it a lot