Rarely seen outside Alaska and adjoining Canadian provinces. Larger than other loons, heavyset, with a large yellow bill. Alternate Adult has black back with white spots, black collar, vertical lines on neck, black head, and bright yellow bill. Basic adult is dark brown overall with white cheeks and throat; borderline on neck is smudgy and indented; yellow bill is dusky at base. Like Red-throated Loon, culmen is straight and bill is often held slightly upward making the bill appear upturned. Juvenile has pale bars on back.

Length: 89 (cm) Wingspan: 125 (cm)

Habitat:

Open ocean, bays, estuaries. Breeds on freshwater tundra lakes.

Behavior:

Like other loons, holds bill angled up. Sometimes flocks with other loons and seabirds.

Feeding:

Dives and swims to catch fish.