ML137554301

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

winter/basic plumage, photographed; first noted a loon swimming on the water at least half way out in the bay that had gleaming white rear flanks. I spent much of the next hour watching it carefully, taking field notes and photos, and comparing it to the other loons present. Viewed through 30X spotting scope and 10X42 binoculars. Fortunately it moved closer to the near shore over the period. I was able to view is next to Red-throated Loon and Common Loon. Pacific Loon was seen in the harbor as sell. Was larger and more robust than Red-throated, but obviously smaller and more slight than a Common Loon. Generally the shape of Pacific Loon, but most obvious difference of snowy white flanks. This was a consistent field mark as it changed positions, flapped, preened, swam and dove. Also noted the lack of a chin strap as is typical of Pacific. Lastly, this bird appeared slightly longer/larger-billed than typical Pacific Loon. Had slightly more angular forehead and flatter crown - but these shape perceptions can by subjective. Photos attached. Hopefully the photos - although not very good due to distance (and only have about 110 zoom on camera) can provide adequate evidence to support the identification.

Technical information

Model

ILCE-6000

Lens

E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS

ISO

320

Focal length

210 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire, auto

f-stop

f/6.3

Shutter speed

1/400 sec

Dimensions

917 pixels x 611 pixels

Original file size

171.19 KB