ML647850277

Observation details

This bird found earlier in the day by Nick M. We located it at 1:00 PM offshore from the new canopy, at about 200-300 yards, and then a bit closer, perhaps to 100 yards. We observed for about 45 minutes with dictated notes.  There were at least six Common Loons within sight for comparison. The bird appeared to be about 80% the size of the COLOs, with the appearance of a thinner neck, smaller, more rounded head, lacking the sharp forehead bump of COLO. The bill was thin and pointed, lacking a strong gonydeal angle, and giving the appearance of the lower mandible being slightly upturned. This was in contrast to the straight dagger-like bill of PALO. The bill was constantly held in an upward angle. The foreneck was grayish or brownish, not the typical bright white face and neck of a winter adult. There was very little color demarcation between the rear of the neck and the foreneck, and no "notch" as in COLO. I was of the opinion that the bird was first year, but maybe in a more advanced state of plumage, and perhaps in a transition to first alternate. This was mainly based on the lack of back patterning, as we were able to see it.  The back just appeared be a rather dark gray, and I could not see any barring on the back as a fresh juvenile is supposed to show, but, at our distance, we may not have been able to see contrast of back pattern.  Perhaps others have better photos that will bring that feature out a bit.  Also, the bird showed a distinct white chin, which may further suggest first or pre-first alternate. I was unable to make any determination regarding the state of wear, at our distance.