From a mere seven pairs three decades ago, Common Loons now number more than 90 breeding pairs in the state. This conservation triumph came only with a collaboration among people and organizations across Vermont.
Our chief partner in loon recovery and conservation is the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. Together, and with help from a corps of dedicated volunteers, we're securing a future for Common Loons in the state. Our strategy features:
- Monitoring – VCE recruits and trains volunteers who watch loons and provide essential information on their distribution, abundance, nesting success, and chick survival. This monitoring is called LoonCount and LoonMonitor.
- Management – We work with lakeside landowners and lake visitors on practical protections for Common Loons. We place floating signs to advise boaters to stay clear of loon nests, work with hydroelectric dam operators to stabilize reservoir levels during loon nesting season, and — on waters where levels do fluctuate — build nesting rafts to mimic islands and help loons succeed. Learn how live alongside loons.
- Public Outreach – Informed lake users are vital to the long-term conservation of Vermont’s loons. VCE’s outreach strategy of free public presentations, media interviews, fact sheets, and other publications ensures that people enjoy loons from a proper distance while fishing, boating, and swimming. Please fill out our Speaker Request Form to have a loon biologist speak at your event or lead an outing.
Do you need help with a distressed loon? Learn what to do here.
