Common Loon Photo: Missy Mandel
The Common Loon is a welcome sight on Canada’s lakes each year, bringing enjoyment to residents, cottagers, and boaters. For many, its ethereal call embodies the very spirit of Canadian summer.
Will you be spending at least one day a month in June, July, and August at a lake graced by loons? You can help these elegant and iconic birds by participating in Bird Studies Canada’s Canadian Lakes Loon Survey. Survey volunteers have been supporting loon and lake conservation for over three decades by reporting on loon chick survival.
These efforts are important to the future of Canada’s loons. Common Loon populations are being negatively impacted by pollution, human disturbance, habitat loss, and other threats. Survey results indicate the average annual number of chicks produced per breeding pair has decreased over time across the country.
Survey volunteers are needed for 2017. We encourage you to monitor loons at the lake of your choice – anywhere in Canada! To learn more or join now, please visit the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey webpage.
In addition to monitoring, the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey supports volunteers in taking on stewardship roles at lakes. Visit the survey webpage for conservation tips and articles, nesting platform instructions, signs that can be posted near loon nest sites, and other resources.
