Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata), Litchfield area, near Luke AFB , Maricopa County

This loon was found and identified by John Arnett and Leah Dunn on 15 December 2009 with photos taken by Leah at the time.

Typically a casual visitor to Arizona, although recently has proven to be almost annual in occurrence during the winter, particularly on reservoirs along the lower Colorado River. There are very few Maricopa Co. records.

Obvious loon with small, relatively thin bill. Bill is often held at a slightly upturned angle, unlike heavier billed Pacific Loon. White of neck, throat, and face extends nearly around eye. The amount of white on the head and neck suggests this could be an adult.

15 December 2009, photo by Leah Dunn