Pacific Loon? (1 Viewer)

[Matt_RTH]

When I first saw this loon it appeared quite odd. The first thing I thought was "leucistic". But as I was looking at my Sibley, it appears that maybe this is a variation of what a first year looks like? A Red Throated had been reported within 200 m of this sighting but I see bars which apparently eliminate RTL as a possibility. This was in Oceanside, CA.

Any comments on species and plumage appreciated.

Thanks,
Matt

 

[lou salomon]

yes matt, 1st winter (juv plumaged) pacific loon.