The Arctic Loon is an Old World loon that barely enters North America, breeding in western Alaska and occasionally appearing along the Pacific Coast. It is nearly identical to the Pacific Loon in non-breeding plumage but is slightly larger with a less curved culmen. In breeding plumage the gray head is slightly darker and the black neck patch has less white striping.
Best time to see a Arctic Loon
The best time to see a Arctic Loon is January–June, when about 78% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 112 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Arctic Loon? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Arctic Loon sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an Arctic Loon?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.