Latin nameGavia immer FamilyDivers (Gaviidae) OverviewThe largest of the UK's divers, it has a bigger, heavier head and bill than its commoner relatives. It is largely a winter visitor to our shores although some non-breeding birds stay off northern coasts in the summer. Where to see themAround coasts where it is usually solitary, often farther out to sea than other divers. Occasionally seen inland on reservoirs. Largest numbers off the Northern and Western Isles of Scotland and also the Cornish coast. When to see themThey start to arrive offshore in August and birds move back to their largely Icelandic breeding grounds in April and May. What they eatFish and crustaceans Estimated numbers| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* |
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| - | - | 2,500-3,000 birds | - |
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations. | 
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 Great northern divers - non-breeding plumage (foreground) and adult breeding (background) Similar birdsHelp the Great northern diverJoin today and help us continue our conservation work to keep these birds safe. |