Rebecca

I have been monitoring Common Loons for the Vermont Center for Ecostudies several years at two very different lake communities. What I noticed most this year while monitoring a Loon pair on a remote, more natural setting was the increased fear/caution response to humans. The previous lake was much more populated with 3+x the development and human/boat activity. It was a true example of city versus country Loon behavior. On the busier lake I became known by the resident pair over the years(maybe they recognized my kayak). It is as if they knew I was helping to protect them yet they were also used to the human activity. As I placed the floating raft signage in the spring, which warns people to keep away during nesting season, the Loons swam near by. As I checked on them weekly with active nest incubation I knew the respectful distance and was able to photograph the activity. Not so on the more remote location lake of the same acreage yet less than a 3rd of the development and fewer motorized boats. I carefully monitored the nest from a very safe and respectful distance, however the parent on the nest would lay low on the nest aware and afraid of my presence...it slid into the water. I was horrified that I was the cause of the departure. Never anything I would have wanted to do. This was a different culture and experience for sure. I watched from my property on the lake as others approached the cove unaware of the nest and I am sure the same departure by the nesting parent. These loons need much more space and respect. The nest failed 2 attempts in 2020 and as I have learned that it has failed for several years. Now that I am new to this lake and monitoring the resident pair I have have suggested changes in access to the cove during breeding/nesting season. Historically no signage was placed because it was thought human activity was so low and it was a much more organic approach to Loon habitation, however kayakers were aiding in the failed nesting seasons. As they paddled nearby, the parents abandoned the nest and predators took the eggs. I was completely aware and the parent left the nest when I approached at a distance to monitor and photograph so it had to be so when those unknowingly approached. This was a very clear experience with difference in location/habitat and behavior of local animals. As animals of a certain species are very similar they are different in as many ways. Melissa, your experience with the Belted Kingfisher Nest was a perfect example and hits home with my experiences too. Thank you for sharing! They are such an elusive, beautiful bird.