The call of Gavia immer, the common loon, is one of the most hauntingly thrilling sounds you’ll hear in nature. And as just about anyone who has spent time in the Land of 10,000 Lakes during late spring or summer will attest, it’s probably the most iconic Minnesota sound there is – it’s definitely my pick.

The common loon is Minnesota's official state bird, and you'll find its presence in many facets of everyday life in The Bold North.
Common Loon landing on lake taken in central MN
Stan Tekiela Author / Naturalist / Wildlife Photographer/Getty Images
When the United States Mint issued the Minnesota state quarter, it included an image of a loon.
The 32nd quarter released in the 50 State Commemorative collection.
Gaussian_Blur/Getty Images
The new official state seal prominently features a loon, as well.
AquitaineHungerForce/Wikimedia Commons
When the state solicited concepts for a new design for the Minnesota state flag, many included loon images.
Saint Paul Public Library/Facebook
Many folks were disappointed when the selected design failed to include a loon. Fortunately, in December 2023, the Saint Paul Public Library resurrected one of the most popular designs - the Laser Loon - on a limited edition library card.
The National Loon Center makes its home right here in Crosslake, Minnesota.
National Loon Center: The Nest, 14303 Gould St, Crosslake, MN 56442, USA
National Loon Center/Facebook
So, we are a hub for loon research and conservation efforts.

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You'll also find plenty of loon iconography in less formal places.
Long Lake City Beach And Wayside Rest, City Beach, Vergas, MN 56587, USA
Nivedita Pant/Google Reviews
For example, the small town of Vergas, in Otter Tail County, has been home to the world's largest loon statue for more than half a century.
The Iron Range city of Virginia, which hosts the annual Land of the Loon Festival, also has some feathers in the game.
World's Largest Floating Loon, N 9th Ave W, Virginia, MN 55792, USA
Jesse James White/Google Reviews
It's home to the world's largest floating loon, which was constructed in the early 1980s.
And, of course, the state's professional soccer team, Minnesota United FC, proudly sports its Loons nickname.
Allianz Field, 400 Snelling Ave N, St Paul, MN 55104, USA
Minnesota United FC/Facebook
Its logo is a loon, and PK the Loon is the team's beloved mascot.
Minnesota United FC/Facebook
Loons games are some of the hottest sports tickets in Minnesota.
In December 2023, the team announced that it would erect a massive loon sculpture outside its home pitch, Allianz Field - another likely entrant in Minnesota's pantheon of world's largest loons.
Allianz Field, 400 Snelling Ave N, St Paul, MN 55104, USA
Minnesota United FC
Thus, the loon and its haunting, seasonal vocalizations are woven into the fabric of Minnesota. And I think that's what makes the call of the common loon the most iconic of Minnesota sounds.
Trent Jonas/OnlyInYourState
This YouTube video from Sunshine and Beaches Traveler offers some great examples for you to enjoy... or to learn from, if you're not sure what the call of a common loon sounds like (volume up!):

 

So, what do you think – are loon calls the most iconic Minnesota sound? Or is it something else, like the long “o” in boat or ope? Let us know in the comments!

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