Loon Defending Itself from an Eagle

With the increase in Bald Eagle activity in Vermont, confrontations and flyovers are becoming a more common sight. There were at least two chicks taken by eagles this year in Vermont on Greenwood Lake and Island Pond. However, loons can defend themselves (see photo from Jon Winslow in NH) and chick survival is surprisingly high on eagle-active lakes.

Jon Winslow also captured this other photo of an Eastern Kingbird diving at an eagle that was flying through its territory.

Eric Hanson

Since 1998, Eric Hanson has been the biologist for the Vermont Loon Conservation Project, a joint program of VCE and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. He has conducted research on the Common Loon since 1992. He takes care of cross country ski trails during the winter months at his home in Craftsbury.