At 9 am on Nov 25-2020, Guy Monty found an immature Arctic Loon off Little Qualicum Estuary. The bird was seen in good light via spotting scope 250 m off shore in a flock of Pacific Loons. The flock was unfortunately flushed by Bald Eagles and the bird was last seen flying further into the straight, 4km off shore with Pacific Loons. Guy was able to obtain photos but due to distance they are not conclusive but suggestive. His worded description is consistent with Arctic Loon and the observer is careful and proficient.
Map to exact location where bird was seen HERE
This is the 3rd photographed record for BC.
The bird was relocated in the same location on Nov 28th but still was too distant for conclusive photos. Mark Wynja and other birders present noted that the bird showed prominent white sides to its flanks at all times, while viewing it, as it swam leisurely.
**The bird was not relocated on Nov 29th, despite multiple observers looking.**
*As per current Public Health directives due to COVID-19 - Please remain 2 metres apart when viewing this bird. Please follow all public health directives (including not birding in groups) during this pandemic. The BC Public Health directives can be found HERE*
***There is a public health order effective now until Feb 6, 2021 restricting non-essential travel from your local health region to anywhere in the province or elsewhere in Canada. It also requires you to limit those you gather with to your core bubble. You can read it HERE***
**eBird's statement on how to bird mindfully during the pandemic can be viewed HERE**
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