California loon confusion (1 Viewer)

[Philter4]

These 2 loons were kind of far away, I believe they are different, both were on the opposite end of the harbor from me so I appologize for the photo quality. There were several of each, but the first type was the only ones that got sort of close. I believe the first one is a red-throated loon because of the white neck and upturned bill. The other I think is a pacific loon, straight bill and dark neck with light throat.

The photos were taken in Ventura Harbor just north of Los Angeles, CA.

Any help and opinions are greatly appreciated, thanks for your input,
Phil

 

[Stuart Darbyshire]

1 is Red-throated, 2 & 3 are Common

 

[chris butterworth]

Agree.

 

[Philter4]

Don't common loons have more dark markings on the throat?

 

[RJP]

Don't common loons have more dark markings on the throat?

In breeding plumage - definitely, but these look pretty normal for non-breeding birds.

 

[Nutcracker]

Ditto to Stuart & Chris.

Don't common loons have more dark markings on the throat?

Burnt out on these pics by over-exposure :t:

 

[njlarsen]

compare: http://www.birdforum.net/opus/Common_Loon
More images if you click the link to the gallery at the bottom of the page

Niels

 

[Philter4]

Thanks everyone! I appreciate it!