Loon Conservation

Loons need clean, clear water so they can fish. Shoreline development, erosion, run-off, and contamination all affect habitat.

From the shore:

• Reduce run-off and erosion from your waterfront property by encouraging natural vegetation along the shoreline.

• Keep pets from harassing wildlife.

• Keep garbage our of reach of loon predators like skunks and raccoons.

• Enjoy loons from a distance, especially if they are nesting.

From the water:

• Watch for loons and keep your distance.

• Slow down near diving loons.

• Stay away from nesting loons.

• Slow down close to shore. Wakes from boats can flood nests. State law requires "no wake" within 200 feet of shore.

• Keep milfoil and other invasive species out of Maine's lakes by keeping all boats and trailers "weed free."

• Avoid fishing for prolonged periods in secluded coves where loons may be feeding or nesting, especially in early summer.

• Use only lead-free line and tackle.

• Retrieve broken fishing line!!!! Pick up discarded line when found.

Watch for these signs:

• A loon is splashing across the water, appearing to stand up.

• A loon is vocalizing at you.

• A loon is lying very flat on the shoreline with its head down. The loon is on its nest and if approached may slide into the water, leaving the eggs exposed to predators.