46

LISTEN TO LOONS

The lonely cry of the loon is distinctive and haunting, and Maine is one of the places where you can hear it in the summer. The unmistakable cry of the loon is more often heard at night, although early mornings and afternoons the birds often indulge in some communication.

Loons are shy. They don’t like to be close to people or activity, so keep your distance if you’re observing them, especially if they have chicks. And loons need territory. Breeding pairs will defend around 100 acres of space. Loon numbers in Maine, as elsewhere, have dwindled over the past thirty years due to factors besides development: Mercury contamination, lead poisoning from ingested sinkers, boat collisions, and entanglements in fishing line have all harmed loons.

Maine loves loons. Since 1993, the loon has adorned a conservation license plate. And the loon image can be seen in gift stores on T-shirts, pillows, mugs, key chains, and other paraphernalia. Artists and photographers love loons, too.

HELPFUL SITES

• maineaudubon.org/wildlife-habitat/the-maine-loon-project/ gorp.com/parks-guide/travel-ta-birdwatching-acadia-national-park-baxter-state-park-bar-harbor-sidwcmdev_055474.html

• nps.gov/acad/learn/photosmultimedia/upload/Loons.mov

• baxterstateparkauthority.com