Pacific Loon Similar Species Comparison

Breeding adult

Long-bodied waterbird with thin bill and round head. Breeding birds have pale gray head and nape with vertical black-and-white stripes on the neck and thick white stripes on the back.

Immature

Nonbreeding birds often show less white on their back that other loons. Most nonbreeding birds have a dusky chinstrap, but this can be difficult to see.

Nonbreeding/immature

Bill is less heavy than Common Loon's but heavier than Red-throated Loon's. Catches fish by diving, using feet for propulsion.

Breeding adult

In flight, often holds head level with the body. Head and neck are gray.

Immature

Has a shorter neck than other loons. Nonbreeding/immature birds often have a dusky chinstrap.

Nonbreeding adult

Daggerlike bill typically held horizontally. Some birds in summer don't molt into breeding plumage; these have whiter necks with dusky vertical stripes.

Breeding adult

Nonbreeding adult

Nonbreeding birds often show less white on the back that other loons. Most nonbreeding birds have a dusky chinstrap, but this can be difficult to see.

Nonbreeding adult

Nonbreeding adult

During migration, often found in large flocks.

Breeding adult

Breeds in freshwater ponds and wetlands in the Arctic.