For descriptions of the orders, see Appendix in Ornithology . Where no species occur normally in eastern North America, the range is indicated. Order Gaviiformes . Diving birds with long pointed bill, feet with front three toes webbed, hallux small but present. Legs inserted far behind middle of body.
Loons ride low on the water and can dive and swim, foot-propelled, under water for several minutes.
Order Podicipediformes . Aquatic birds, swimming on and below the surface, diving from surface, using the feet. Feet with front three toes individually lobed, nails flat and broad, hallux present, absent in some species. Tarsi laterally compressed. Legs insert far behind middle of body.