Tweeters -

In response to Denny's sighting of a Red-throated Loon with extensive white
sides from the same location as the possible Arctic Loon report, I must make
two key points regarding the bird sighted on Thursday. One: it's "hood"
extended below the eye, such that the eye did not stand out against white
plumage. Two: while slightly lighter than the Pacific Loons in the
vicinity, the back was a uniform dark brown/black, and not the
white-speckled slate of a winter-plumage Red-throated Loon. Lastly, while
not a key point because of how subjective it can be, it is something to take
into consideration: the Thursday bird's jizz was not that of the dainty yet
smug look I associate with the smaller and upturned-bill appearance of a
Red-throated Loon. Take this for what you will, as I agree with Denny's
assessment that "all Arctic Loons have extensive white on their sides, but
not all loons with extensive white on the sides are Arctic Loons.".
However, I'd like to add the caveat that it's important not to dismiss the
first white-flanked loon you see as the only one in the area.

Cheers and good birding!

Tyler

--
Tyler Davis
FishingOwl at gmail.com
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