Photographed this bird in 2005 in Washington State... named it common loon (juvenile).
In hindsight I think it is a Pacific Loon but there is too much dark on bill.
The dark tip of bill pushes me towards common loon.
The white eye ring pushes me towards common loon.
My Sibley's guide says to note the dark around eye on the Pacific!!!
I'm so confused.
Any suggestions???
Common Loon, from the neck pattern.
Pacific has a much 'smoother' contrast between the white throat and the dark grey hind neck, without that dark band reaching toward the front near the base of the neck.
Resin
thank you for confirming my original identification.
Your knowledge is astounding!!!
Cheers!
