Does this loon need to be rescued?

Loons often engage in normal behaviors that may appear concerning. Please review Does this loon need to be rescued to determine if you are observing normal or concerning conditions.  Also please visit the Loon Preservation Committee website for videos on normal Loon behavior.

What to do if you believe the loon is sick or injured:

A loon beached on shore is a sick or injured loon and should never be returned to the water. Loons that are beached on shore, injured, hooked or entangled in fishing line, and orphaned chicks need to be rescued by a trained loon rescue volunteer.  Do not attempt to rescue the loon.  Observe the loon carefully and use binoculars. Take photos and video of the loon.

·      As you observe the loon, look to see if the loon is hooked or entangled in fishing line. 

·      Look for signs of injury.

·      Watch to see if the loon dives and if the dives are short or long dives.

·      Note if it is behaving lethargically, showing signs of impairment, or hiding under docks or beached on shore

·      Look for colored leg bands and note the colors of the bands.

·      Note whether the loon is part of a mated pair and if it has chicks.

·      After you have gathered this info, call Minnesota Loon Rescue, 612 226-6571

Information to share with Minnesota Loon Rescue Intake:

• Please leave a message with the following information if your call goes to voicemail.  A volunteer will return your call as soon as possible.

  ·      Full name, lake, nearest town, and county where the loon is located.

  ·      If the loon was found on land or a road, give the nearest address.

  ·       Date and time of day the loon was spotted. 

  ·      Brief description of your concerns, and whether you are still with the loon. 

  ·      Member of mated pair or not

  ·      Band colors if bands are noticed 

  ·      After you speak with the intake volunteer or leave your message, text the photos to 612 226-6571 and include your name and location.

What to do if you find a deceased loon

The University of Minnesota is conducting a loon mortality study, and deceased loons are needed for their research. Take photos of the deceased loon. Call Minnesota Loon Rescue and report the location of the deceased loon, including lake, nearest town, and county. Share any details you know about the cause of death. The intake person will provide advice or arrange assistance. Text the photos to 612 226-6571.