Today while having lunch by Alsea Bay in Waldport I was privileged to observe a once in a lifetime event. I saw a male Common Loon swimming placidly among the choppy, storm tossed water a few yards off the beach when he quickly dove under the surface on what appeared to be a fish hunt.
A few seconds later, the water burst up and here was the diving male facing what must have been his mate in a courtship dance. The birds seemed to stand on the top of the water on their feet and proceeded to flap their wings at each other for several seconds. Then, without entering the water again they both literally ran along the surface of the water with the female leading and the male in close pursuit. I watched until they were out of sight and marveled at the beauty of the performance provided by these frequently observed birds.
Common Loon
Sightings like this are one of the many great reasons to live on the Oregon Coast. On your next visit I would be happy to point out several areas that would bring you regular sightings like this.
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I am hoping to see your dancing loon as I am working on a commission in glass for a wedding gift for a client of long standing. I have one loon now but need the “dancing loon” to complete the design. Cheers, Mary Jane Zissoff 705 746 4l47