BY SUSIE BURBIDGE PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAN POLESCHOOK & GINGER GUMM
When you are out on the lake, please make sure to give the loons plenty of space. They show distress in several different ways, some of which can be quite subtle. Here’s a guide to help you understand a little more about their behavior.
- When loons become nevous, they will often raise the feathers on their forehead to give this “squared-off ” look. If there is a potential threat, a loon may also stretch its neck up in an alert posture (not shown), evaluating the situation.
- If a loon feels threatened while on the nest, it will put its head down. This position indicates the loon may leave the nest. This is a major concern because, while the loon is away from the nest, the eggs may overheat, chill or be taken by a predator.
If you see a loon on a nest with its head down, please leave the area immediately.
- When a loon is very upset, it may rear up in the water with its wings either spread out or clasped against its body and rapidly paddle its feet in the water. This could be the result of a boat approaching too closely or an intruding loon in the territory. This type of distraction display takes time and energy away from caring for themselves and their chicks.
If you see this type of display, please leave the area immediately. Any vocalization given when you are close to or approaching a loon can also indicate distress.
For more information about loons please visit www.loon.org.
Susie is an Eastman Member and the outreach/volunteer coordinator for The Loon Preservation Committee.
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