![]() The 2022 Loon count at Wassookeag was 16 Adults and 1 chick followed by another chick hatched after the loon count. This was a typical number. Our loon counts have been anywhere from 25 as in 2004 to only 2 in 2013. Two loon chicks grew to adolescence and flew away late last Fall several weeks after their parents left. Adolescent loons are typically abandoned by their parents at about 12 weeks to continue growing and gaining strength to fly long distances. Just like adult loons who tend to start grouping up before migrating, adolescent loons do the same, just later in the Fall. 2023 marks the 40th year of counting loons in Maine lakes! The Maine Audubon Society has published the following loon count data south of the 45th parallel — roughly south of a line from Rangeley to Calais — which is the area where the Society has enough lakes covered by counters to make a reliable estimate. The Audubon Society reminds us that trauma, especially from boat or jet ski collisions is now the leading cause of adult loon deaths. Also, large wakes can cause loon nests to flood and wash out eggs. The loon count is held on the 3rd Saturday in July from 7 to 7:30 am each year. This year is will be July 19th, 2024. For more information, check out MaineAudubon.org/projects/loons. Things you can do to be loon-friendly
Interesting Loon Links
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