| Statistics | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 61cm |
| Wingspan: | 1.1m |
| Weight: | 1.6kg |
| Average Lifespan: | 9 years |
The red-throated diver lives up to its name - the distinctive red patch on its throat heralds the breeding season. In summer, it nests in Scotland, but look out for it around the UK's coast during winter.
About
The red-throated diver is a large waterbird; it is larger than the great crested grebe, but smaller than the cormorant. Red-throated divers nest on small pools and lochs, moving to the coast in winter, where they feed on fish. It sometimes turns up on big lakes and reservoirs.
How to identify
The smallest of the divers, the red-throated diver has beautiful summer plumage, with a silky grey face and neck, and a red throat. In the winter, it turns a silvery-grey above and white underneath. It has a slightly upturned bill.
Did you know?
In Scotland, the red-throated diver is sometimes called the 'rain goose' because it is thought that it can predict the weather. Short cries are considered to indicate fine weather, but long, plaintive cries are a herald of wet weather.