Loon Report

Mark and Mary Jo Fritsvold volunteered to build, launch and maintain the loon nesting platform on Lake Adney beginning in 2020.  On 4/12/2024 (photo above) they launched the nest and the resident male loon was quick to check it out and soon the female banded loon joined him. Their call of approval was music to all ears as we look forward to welcoming baby loons that spring. One of the two eggs hatched successfully. Unfortunately, a hailstorm came through which the precious baby was unable to survive.

A floating sign is placed near the nest to inform boaters and others to keep a safe distance from the nest. This is a no-wake zone to preserve the nesting process and help keep the loons safe. We have only one chance each year to increase the loon population in our area. Welcoming a baby loon and watching it grow is one of the greatest pleasures for many living on the lake. We are thankful local residents are respectful of this process.

Baby loons are quite vulnerable as they cannot dive to protect themselves like the parents can and are not strong enough to withstand a long period of heavy wave action.

The 2026 nesting season was heartbreaking. The nesting platform was launched April 23 and by May 6, our resident loons were on the platform with two eggs. Black flies relentlessly attacked the loons as they shared the responsibility of sitting on their eggs. Incubation duties continued 41 days (28-30 days is normal incubation period) with no successful hatch. We believe the black flies contributed to unviability. The National Loon Center is researching a possible solution to this problem for future years.