This pic was taken 2 weeks ago in Scottsdale, AZ. It is either (I think) a Common Loon or a Pacific Loon. Apparently others I've talked to think it is a Pacific Loon, but I'm not so sure. Any help would be appreciated.

tough call. The common loon should show - white around eye - jagged neck markings between light and dark - .
The Pacific loon - no white around eye - straight border along light and dark on neck - back of the neck lighter color than the back and forehead.

Looks to me like you have characteristics of both. Is one more common in your area than the other?

Gerald

Thanks for the response - actually loons are quite rare in Phoenix, so can't really answer your question.

Head shape and smallish thin bill favour Pacific.

Cheers,

Larry