Verification of Unusual Sight Record
For Utah

Rec. # 2022-11


Common name:

Red-throated Loon

Scientific name: Gavia stellata
Date: 3/31/2022
Time: 10:30
Length of time observed: 20 min
Number: 1
Age: unknown
Sex: unknown
Location: Rockport Reservoir
County: Summit
Latilong: 40° 47' 14.39" N -111° 24' 8.99" W
Elevation: approx. 6000 ft.
Distance to bird: approx. .4 mile
Optical equipment: Swarovski 95 mm scope with 30-70x zoom
Weather: clear
Light Conditions: good
Description:        Size of bird: smaller than a Common Loon
(Description:)       Basic Shape: long and thin (like a loon)
(Description:)  Overall Pattern: dark gray back, light gray head, white front
(Description:)            Bill Type: long, thin, pointed
(Description:)                              
Field Marks and
Identifying Characteristics:
small loon with dark gray back, light gray head, and white front - appeared to be transitioning from winter to summer plumage - low profile in the water, so easily distinguishable from the many Common Loons in the area - thin bill that was usually pointed upward slightly
(see photo)
Song or call & method of delivery: unknown
Behavior: diving frequently and swimming long distances under water
Habitat: reservoir
Similar species and how
were they eliminated:
similar to Pacific Loon, which visits this location most years - appeared to be smaller than Pacific because it had a lower profile in the water - thinner bill that was usually pointed upward slightly - this bird was transitioning from winter to summer plumage, with white on throat and sides, but Pacific Loons should already be in full breeding plumage
Previous experience with
this & similar species:
have observed in Seattle, as well as a couple at Rockport in previous years
References consulted: Sibley
Description from: From photo(s) taken at the time of the sighting
Observer: Dave Hanscom
Observer's address: 1451 Moray Court, Park City, UT 84060
Observer's e-mail address: **
Other observers who independently identified this bird: Nate Brown, Matt Pendleton, David Wheeler, etc.
Date prepared: 4/2/2022
Additional material: Photo
Additional comments: