Red-throated Diver
Gavia stellata
Length 55-65cm

Slim, elegant build. Dives well in search of fish. Characteristically holds head and dagger-like bill uptilted. In summer plumage, elegant with blue-grey face and sides to neck, red throat and black and white streaks on nape. In winter, has mainly dark grey upperparts and pale underparts; delicate speckling of white spots on back visible only at close range. Breeds on small lochs and tarns in Shetland, Orkney, W Scotland and NW Ireland, always within flying range of sea for feeding. In winter, found in sheltered waters around much of British coast.