Great Northern Diver
Gavia immer
Overview
The Great Northern Diver is larger and less common than Red-throated Diver on the Sefton Coast. In winter plumage they're grey-brown above and white below with a large, angular head and a heavy, straight bill. Their famous tremolo call from North American lakes is rarely heard in British waters. Any large diver offshore is worth identifying carefully — Great Northern is always the less likely species on the Sefton Coast but turns up most winters.
At a Glance
| Order | Gaviiformes |
| Family | Gaviidae |
| Habitat | Open sea · Offshore coastal water |
| Diet | Fish — pursues fish underwater by diving |
| UK population | Winter only; around 4,000 wintering birds in the UK — less common than Red-throated |
| Sefton Coast | Occasional offshore; typically fewer than Red-throated Diver |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Offshore from Formby Point. Usually in smaller numbers than Red-throated Diver.
Identification
Large, heavy diver. Winter: grey-brown above, white below, large head with angular 'hunched neck' profile. Heavy straight bill (unlike Red-throated's upturned). Much larger than Red-throated.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Compare any winter diver carefully against Red-throated. Great Northern is noticeably larger with a heavier bill and more angular head. A telescope is essential for confident identification.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Great Northern Divers ever breed in the UK?
There has been occasional attempted breeding in Scotland, but Great Northern Divers do not regularly breed in the UK. They breed mainly in Iceland, Greenland and North America. The name 'loon' used in North America comes from their haunting wailing calls — a sound associated with wilderness lakes.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.