The Black-throated Diver is smaller than a Northern Diver but bulkier and bigger than the Red-throated with a stouter more horizontal bill, and bolder, more black and white markings. Its immaculate summer plumage is unmistakable and key features in winter plumage include a broad triangular white patch around the flanks and more extensive dark areas on the head, nape and neck, contrasting boldly with the paler cheeks and throat.

Breeds on freshwater lochs and pools. Winters off coasts and ocasionally on inland freshwaters.

Very localised breeder on lochs in the Scottish Highlands, favouring larger lochs than Red-throated. In winter can be seen off any coast, although much less common than Red-throated, except perhaps in the south west. Good sites include Portland Harbour in Dorset and at Pendower Beach in Cornwall. Odd birds also turn up each year in various inland localities.

Breeds in the forest lakes of Scandinavia. Numbers can be seen throughout the year in the bays of Varanger Fjord, Norway.

©BirdGuides 1999