Anyone who has camped or boated around lakes in Ontario or British Columbia, in fact across most of North America, will have heard the haunting call of these amazing birds. This one is for a friend whose timely gift prompted me to refresh my knowledge and share a bit of what I found -- the need for concern and more importantly, conservation for these beautiful birds.

Loons, or Divers as they are also known, are another species that are losing their fight for survival. Elevated mercury concentrations are consistent in more and more adult birds found dead each year. Lead sinkers used by fishermen, whether consumed by the fish or picked up from lake bottoms, break down in the loons and are absorbed into their systems, the end result being death from lead poisoning. Another factor in their declining numbers is our invasion on their nesting grounds. The nests, in which only two eggs are laid, are shallow and as close to the water's edge as they can be. The wake from boats and jet skis washes many nests away -- including the contents. Loons only nest once per season.

If youre boating or fishing this summer, please be considerate. Use non-lead sinkers, and reduced your speed and wake near the shoreline and when approaching any loons on the water. Let's do what we can to be able to enjoy the call of the loon for generations to come. (less info)