Best time to see: late Oct to end Apr
Key facts
The largest of the divers seen off the Essex coast in winter, and very occasionally inland on reservoirs
Breeds in Greenland, Iceland and N. America
Recognition
In winter, dark above and pale below, with large greyish bill; male up to 90 cm, female 75 cm
Swims on the sea off the coast, singly or in small groups, with head and bill held horizontal
Dives frequently and stays down for minutes at a time, eating fish and shellfish
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© Alan Williams