ML646428350

Observation details

Seen at relatively close distance from the KY side. In the company of 2 Common Loons for awhile; moved about due to presence of barges and a passing jonboat; they joined a third as they came in close to KY shore, diving frequently. One of the Commons began calling and looked anxious before taking off , followed by the rest of the loons in the group; they disappeared flying downriver. Adult bird with very black upperparts other than some retained alternate feathers with bright white squarish patches on the upper back. Smaller than Commons next to it with sleek look to bill/head/neck profile and no pale indentation along neck line. Dark "chin-strap" apparent through scopes and in photos. Could not be relocated anywhere downstream after they flew.