Seabird

Common loon

Gavia immer

A large diving bird that winters on the saltwater bays of Whatcom and Skagit counties. Some molt into their striking breeding plumage before leaving in spring.

Seasonality

Peaks in January. Present from September to May; breeding plumage shows best in April and May.

Behavior

Dives for fish and can stay under for a minute or more, surfacing far from where it went down.
Winters alone or in loose groups on open bays and harbors.
The black-and-white checkered breeding plumage appears from April into May.

Photography tips

Calm water gives clean reflections and less chop; check the marine forecast before you go.
Pre-focus near the surface and wait for the bird to come up after a dive.

Field ethics

Keep boats and kayaks well clear; loons dive or flush when approached.

Where to look

Semiahmoo SpitWhatcom County · Peaks in January
Point Whitehorn Marine ReserveWhatcom County · Peaks in January
Boulevard ParkWhatcom County · Peaks in January