Coastal NC, USA - Red throated Loon? (2 Viewers)

[paul_soda]

Hi all,
Would appreciate help with this ID. They seemed the right size and behavior, diving periodically for long periods of time. They were hanging out right past the surf near the beach. Short neck and long body seem to confirm against a Western or other Grebe.
Thanks!!

 

[Barbets48]

Hi all,
Would appreciate help with this ID. They seemed the right size and behavior, diving periodically for long periods of time. They were hanging out right past the surf near the beach. Short neck and long body seem to confirm against a Western or other Grebe.
Thanks!!

Yes, looks good for Red-throated Loon. Notice long upturned bill (Vs Common Loon’s more bulky bill). As you said, body is much longer than any grebe’s.

 

[paul_soda]

Wonderful, thank you!! Still getting used to all the sea birds non-breeding plumage.