Yellow-billed Loon at Standley Lake

[Donna Stumpp]

Early this morning Peter Ruprecht and I saw what we are fairly certain is a YBLO at Standley Lake. We had thought initially it was a Common Loon, but were not certain. Amanda Spears helped guide us to the YBLO identification, which made more sense after we could look closely at the photos. 

The bird was seen just offshore from the old paved boat launch on the north shore. There were also approximately 400 gulls on the water overnight (I saw them fly in last evening from my home) that took off early. We noticed one Lesser-black Backed Gull but were focused mostly on the loon. Gulls took off between 6:45am-8am.

NOTE - the main gate is closed since the park is officially closed, but the trails are open to visitors. We parked in the free lot off 100th just east of the main entrance - opens at sunrise. 

Donna Stumpp              Peter Ruprecht

Westminster, CO           Superior, CO