Minnesota Loon Monitoring Program

One morning, during a 10-day period in summer, volunteers visit lakes in Itasca County to count the number of adult and juvenile loons seen and report these observations for data management, analysis, and water quality. This information collected provide the Nongame Wildlife Program with an early warning system for detecting changes in the numbers of loons and the health of their lake habitats. Loons on lakes are a good indicator of the quality of the lake, nesting habitat and water clarity which is beneficial to the loons to catch food.

Our loon counters Don and Diane Ostlie surveyed the lake on June 30th, 2024 and counted 28 adult loons and 9 juveniles.

Despite the threat from the eagles soaring above the lake and the snapping turtles swimming below, the loons are doing a great job in protecting their young. Boaters and jet skiers also have a responsibility in protecting the loon population.

The MN DNR warns boaters not to hit loons on lakes this summer: As boaters flock to Minnesota lakes, conservation leaders are warning them to watch for loons and to avoid hitting the state bird, noting that watercraft are a significant cause of loon deaths. Loons frequently nest and raise their young in areas where boaters may be speeding by. Be aware that loon chicks can’t dive for safety or fly until they are more than 2 months old.

In addition to fast-moving boats, threats to loons include human disturbance and pollutants such as lead and mercury. Let us all do our part in protecting Turtle Lake's loon population by being good stewards.