[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by upthesaukee

Over in Robert's Cove, it is not only power boaters who encroach on the floating nest area (or the loons swimming away from the nest area with chicks), it is also kayakers, canoeists, paddleboarders.

Not giving them their space during their nesting period, and then while the chicks are young and vulnerable, gets them stressed. They will do excessive calling, stretch their necks out low to the water, often splashing the water with one wing.

Enjoy them from a distance. Often, we have had loons swim right up to our boat, say within 20-25 ft, even with chicks. Of course, we're not blasting music, and as they near us, we keep our movements to a minimum.

Dave

Believe it or not, sailboats getting too close to loons are devastating to them as well according to a biologist I spoke with a few years back. Apparently the sight and slapping of the sails absolutely terrifies them and puts them under extreme stress.

I guess the lesson here is give them space no matter what boat your in!

Dan