Loon Count 2008

by Susan Gallo, Maine Audubon wildlife biologist

December 17, 2008

Topics: Conservation | Loons

Record number of participants records adult loon population bouncing back after years of decline.

The 25th anniversary of the Maine Loon Count this summer saw many causes for celebration-not only were we happy to reach this important milestone, but the record number of volunteers who participated found that after a recent decline the adult loon population is on the rise.

Just over a thousand counters went out on 332 lakes and ponds across Maine on July 19 for the count, recording a total of 2,083 adult loons and 184 chicks.

In the southern half of the state, 1728 adults and 164 chicks were seen on 280 lakes. Using a sample of lakes from this region, Maine Audubon has estimated the adult common loon population in southern Maine to be 2,784, an improvement after declines in 2007 and 2006.

We were worried that there would be a drop in the adult population for an unprecedented third year in a row. The bounce back is a relief and puts the population back on a healthy track.

The estimate of the chick population, however, dropped from last year's nearly record high of 422 to just 265. While fluctuations from year to year in chick productivity are typical, over time the chick population has remained stable. Last year's unusually high number of chicks coincided with a drop in adults, making the number of chicks produced relative to the number of adults on our lakes quite high. That productivity has decreased for 2008.

While weather conditions stayed mostly favorable for loons leading up to count day, consistent rains in the weeks after may have had a negative impact on chick survival rates. With enough heavy rain, lake levels can rise enough to flood nests on the shore.

The record number of volunteers participating this year was a pleasant surprise. A record number of phone calls came from interested parties this summer-people's enthusiasm about the loon count is always amazing.

One team from Echo Lake in Fayette proved that this passion for loons cuts across generations. The age of their counters ranged from 9-month-old Mitchell Sanders to 103-year-old Ada Mutch! It just goes to show you loons have an appeal to all ages and that the count is a great way for anyone to get involved in their conservation.

Thanks to all the volunteers for making this 25th loon count another great success.

Susan Gallo is a Maine Audubon wildlife biologist and director of the Maine Loon Project.