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Loons: www.MichiganLoons.org Common loons are large goose sized black and white
diving water birds that spend their summer on our Lake; 2-3ft long and 8-12lbs in weight
w/ a wingspan of 4-5ft. These are remarkable, unique and PROTECTED species. They nest generally in May and June only to lay two eggs mostly in coves, inlets and canals - non-populated
water areas. Loon parents leave their nest if watercraft or people come within
150 yards from the nest; leaving the nest vulnerable to predators and without warmth.
BOAT TRAFFIC AND PASSERBY'S ARE CAUSES OF LOST EGGS. We have one nest currently here on Wildwood
Lake in the cove at south end of a canal near the northeast to east side
of lake. It is only a few feet from the shoreline and no one or thing should
be in that close of proximity to the shoreline. STAY AWAY FROM THEIR NESTS. When you see two loons together during June and May, it is a good indication that
they’re nests have been disturbed. WATCH FOR YOUNG CHICKS during our summer months. They
are not as resilient as their parents. They are often on their parents backs
for warmth and protection, as they are not waterproof, they can't dive quickly, like their parents, as they are very buoyant,
and they tire easy when swimming. If you see a loon "dancing" straight up out of water and slapping its wings, move away immediately.
You are too close and in their territory. Enjoy loons from afar. Listen to their calls and enjoy
the solitude of our Lake. Loons need this solitude
to breed and raise their young. If loons are rare to sight and leaving our lake,
so is the solitude. Please be courteous to our Wildwood Lake loons! Again, these
are our unique, protected species; let's do what we can to keep a watchful eye on them!
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