2020 Loon Count

Michelle Brauner, Loon Monitoring Volunteer

Who wants to wait until the next newsletter to hear what the loon count is for 2020? Well, that is what I thought too! This year's count is 30 Adults and 6 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.