Common Loon look-alikes

Key differences

Smaller size, thinner bill, and in breeding plumage, the Pacific Loon has a gray head and a purple sheen on the throat patch, lacking the Common Loon's distinct black-and-white striped 'necklace'. In non-breeding plumage, Pacific Loons show a distinct 'chinstrap' and a sharper demarcation between dark and light on the neck.

Key differences

Similar to Pacific Loon, but with a more restricted range in Eurasia and western Alaska. Shares the gray head and purple throat sheen in breeding plumage, distinguishing it from the Common Loon's striped neck.

Key differences

Significantly smaller, with a thinner, often upturned bill. In breeding plumage, it has a distinctive red throat patch (which can be hard to see at a distance) and a gray head, lacking the Common Loon's black-and-white patterns. It also takes off more easily from water, often without a long run.

Key differences

Larger than the Common Loon, with a distinctive pale yellow or ivory-colored bill that is often held slightly upturned. Breeding plumage is similar to Common Loon but lacks the distinct 'necklace' and has a more extensive white flank patch. Its range is primarily Arctic.