Loons are aquatic birds found across North America. There are two main species of loons that live in Michigan – the Common Loon and the Red-throated Loon. Loons prefer to live on lakes and rivers, and Michigan’s abundance of inland lakes provides excellent habitat for these birds.
Common Loon
The Common Loon (Gavia immer) is the species most commonly associated with Michigan. These large diving birds breed on inland lakes across the state. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan’s Common Loon population is estimated at about 3,000 nesting pairs.
Common Loons nest on quiet, remote lakes that provide protection from predators and human disturbance. Some of the best lakes for Common Loons include:
- Torch Lake in Antrim County
- Douglas Lake in Cheboygan County
- St. Clair Lake in Lapeer County
- Houghton Lake in Roscommon County
- Glen Lake in Leelanau County
These large, clear lakes provide plenty of room for the loons to dive and find food. Gradual, shallow areas are also important as they allow the loons to easily come and go from shore. Many of Michigan’s deepest, coldest lakes are perfect loon habitat.
Red-throated Loon
The Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata) is a smaller relative of the Common Loon. Red-throated Loons breed in the far northern parts of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and throughout the Upper Peninsula. They prefer smaller bog lakes and marshy ponds near wooded areas. Bodies of water where Red-throated Loons nest are generally less than 15 acres in size.
Some key locations for finding Red-throated Loons include:
- Seney National Wildlife Refuge in Schoolcraft County
- Mackinac State Forest lands in Mackinac County
- Hiawatha National Forest wetlands
- Les Cheneaux Islands in Mackinac County
Red-throated Loons are much rarer than Common Loons in Michigan. Only several hundred breeding pairs reside in the state. They tend to avoid lakes with lots of human activity.
Migration
Michigan loons are migratory. They winter along coastal areas before returning to Michigan each spring to breed. Loons arrive back in Michigan in April and May when ice has melted from the lakes. They nest and raise their chicks over the summer.
By late October, most loons have migrated back south to their wintering grounds. Some loons can still be spotted on Michigan lakes into November or early December, but the majority leave before the lakes freeze over. Coastal areas from New England to Mexico are common overwintering sites for Michigan loons.
Threats and Conservation
Loons face a number of threats in Michigan. One of the biggest is human disturbance, since loons nest in pristine, quiet lakes. Shoreline development, fishing, boating traffic, and recreational activities can disrupt nesting loons.
Other threats include:
- Pollution – Loons are vulnerable to lead poisoning and other contaminants.
- Habitat loss – Wetland drainage and shrinking water levels reduce nesting habitat.
- Predators – Raccons, crows, eagles, and other predators may eat loon eggs.
Conservation programs in Michigan aim to monitor loon populations, protect key nesting lakes, and educate lake residents and visitors. Artificial nesting platforms have also been installed to provide safer nest sites. With continued conservation efforts, Michigan should remain an important stronghold for Common Loons and Red-throated Loons.
Best Places to See Loons in Michigan
Some of the top spots in Michigan to view and hear loons include:
Location | Description |
---|---|
Seney National Wildlife Refuge | Marshy refuge with trails and overlooks to spot Red-throated Loons. |
Torch Lake | Northern Michigan inland lake with a large Common Loon population. |
Douglas Lake | Cheboygan County lake with loon nesting platforms and boat tours. |
Lake Leelanau | Clear lake in Leelanau Peninsula with loons. |
Les Cheneaux Islands | Archipelago in Lake Huron with marshy Red-throated Loon nesting habitat. |
The best time to see loons is from mid-April through October during nesting and migration seasons. Some hardy loons may overwinter on the Great Lakes and inland lakes with open water.
With patience and some knowledge of loon behavior, birdwatchers can enjoy observing these iconic aquatic birds in many regions of Michigan.
Loon Calls and Communication
One of the most fascinating aspects of loons is their wide range of vocalizations. Male and female loons use complex calls to communicate with each other and defend territories.
The four main types of loon calls are:
- Yodel – A male loon’s territorial call. It is a loud, rising and falling cry.
- Tremolo – The loon’s distress call. Sounds like maniacal laughter.
- Hoot – A simple call that both males and females use to make contact.
- Wail – A soothing call that helps loon pairs stay in touch.
In spring, the yodel call helps loons establish breeding territories and attract mates. By learning to identify these signature sounds, birders can detect loon presence and behavior. Loon calls carry far across lakes and serve an important communication function.
Interesting Loon Facts
Here are some additional facts about loons in Michigan:
- Loons can dive underwater to depths over 200 feet in search of fish.
- Their black and white plumage provides camouflage when swimming.
- A loon’s legs are located very far back on their body, making them awkward on land.
- Loons eat a variety of fish including perch, sunfish, trout, and ciscoes.
- Red-throated Loons get their name from their reddish brown neck patch in breeding season.
- Loon chicks ride around on their parents’ back for warmth and protection.
- Loons are the state bird of Minnesota.
- Legend says loons foretold death and disaster for Native American tribes.
- Loons can live over 30 years, one of the longest lifespans for birds.
Conclusion
Overall, Michigan provides excellent breeding habitat for Common Loons and Red-throated Loons due to its abundance of northern lakes. Loons favor clear, quiet lakes to successfully nest and raise their young. Threats like pollution and habitat loss make conservation programs essential to ensure healthy loon populations.
Birdwatchers traveling Up North can observe loon behavior, listen for their haunting calls, and appreciate these ancient birds that have long captured the imagination of Michigan residents. Protecting loon territories and wetland ecosystems will guarantee future generations can enjoy Michigan’s beloved wilderness avians.