Sighting Record for Utah

Common name:	Red-throated Loon
Scientific name:	Gavia stellata
Date:	11-19-2016
Time:	4:20 pm
Length of time observed:	15
Number:	1
Age:	Adult?
Sex:	Unknown
Location:	Pineview Reservoir
County:	Weber
Latilong:
Elevation:	4900'
Distance to bird:	180 yards
Optical equipment:	Vortex HD, Swarovski HD spotting scopes
Weather:	Clear
Light Conditions:	Early evening, medium.
Description: Size of bird:	~24"
(Description:) Basic Shape:	Slender "Loon"
(Description:) Overall Pattern:	Overall grayish
(Description:) Bill Type:	Slender, appeared upturned.
(Description:) Field Marks and Identifying Characteristics:	This bird seemed to be late in exiting its breeding plumage. Still was dark overall with red on front of neck and white starting to show through on flanks. Flat crown to head with the appearance of a pek to the rear. (see photos)
Song or call & method of delivery:	N/A
Behavior:	Continuously diving for food.
Habitat:	Cold water reservoir
Similar species and how were they eliminated:	The slender bill and red on front of throat/neck area pretty much eliminated any other loon possibilities.
Previous experience with this & similar species:	This is the 3rd RTLO (2nd of the day!) I've seen in Utah. I've seen more than I can count in Alaska.
References consulted:	None.
Description from:	Notes taken at the time of the sighting
Observer:	Mike Hearell
Observer's address:	255 W 2700 N, Pleasant View, UT
Observer's e-mail address:	**
Other observers who independently identified this bird:	Daniel Sachse, Billy Fenimore, Taylor Abbott, Kris Purdy, Jack Rensel
Date prepared:	11-19-2016
Additional material:	Photos
Additional comments:	My photos are absolutely useless in the ID of this bird. Hoping others obtained better photos. I know Billy & Dan had some that were at least identifiable.