THE BIRDS OF SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE
BLACK-THROATED DIVER – Gavia arctica
As with all reports of rare and scarce birds they are subject to ratification by the respective rarities committees
Black-throated Diver, known in North America as Arctic Loon is a medium sized member of the loon or diver family. Loon is a direct reference to its wailing song and is associated with the word 'lunatic'. It breeds in Eurasia and winters at sea or on large lakes over a much wider range. Some historical names for Black-throated Diver include; Lumme, Lesser Imber, Northern Doucher and Herring Bar.
There have been three Black-throated Divers reported from S. Gloucestershire, they are;
1991: (2)
Two found on May 6th off New Passage were both adults in breeding plumage. This occurrence constitutes the first record of this species for S. Gloucestershire.
2000: (1)
On December 1st an adult in winter plumage was seen off Severn Beach.