Minnesota State BirdLearn About the State Bird of MinnesotaThe Minnesota State bird is the loon which is one of the most beloved Minnesota State symbols. Children and adults alike love to try to imitate the haunting call of the state bird of Minnesota.It's such a thrill to hear the call of a loon out on a lake and, finally, to get a glimpse of one of these stunning birds. 
The official name of the Minnesota State Bird is the "Common Loon" which seems far from the right name for such an uncommon bird. This very large bird is about thirty inches in length and has a wingspan of about five feet. An adult loon may weigh anywhere from six to thirteen pounds. If you spot a loon on a Minnesota lake, one of the first clues that you are indeed looking at the state bird of Minnesota is its iridescent, greenish-colored head. A swimming loon is somewhat "hidden" on the lake by its black back and wings that are speckled with white spots. This coloring blends with a sun sparkled lake surface. The loon completes its outfit with a black and white striped band around its neck, an under coat of white feathers all accented with beautiful red eyes. This fancy finery is worn by the loon throughout the breeding season. When autumn arrives, the loon dons more somber garb. Brown feathers take the place of the black and white summer coat; the feathers on the throat become white to match the belly and the flashing red eyes turn brown. Loon chicks are black and fluffy at first and, as they grow, come to look very much like an adult loon dressed in winter garb until they are between one and two years old.
A Few Loon Facts:
Often, while camping by a lake, our kids would spend a great deal of time perfecting their "loon calls" in the hope of a response from a real loon. Once in a while it would actually happen. What many people don't know is that the Common Loon has four different calls.
More About the Hoot-Tremolo-Yodel & Wail A Short Clip of A Loon Call
Minnesota state bird info you might enjoy...The Cass Creek Loon Call features all four loon calls that we have discussed, the hoot, the wail, the tremolo and the yodel.Call of The Loon book and CD  is a comprehensive look at the loon, its habitat and its habits. Included is a CD with video footage of loon life.Fascinating Loons  is another outstanding book, with beautiful photos, about loons and loon behavior.
Does the Minnesota State Bird Need Help?While the loon population in Minnesota appears to be relatively stable, and even showing a slight increase, we can take some steps to help protect the state bird of Minnesota:
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