Loon Nest Streaming Live from the Lakes Region of New Hampshire
Live broadcast from early May till mid-July
Updated July 18, 2024
News Headlines
All LoonCams are finished for the 2024 season as of 5PM July 17
LoonCam Nest 1: Egg 1: 6/18 10:56AM / Egg 2: 6/21 12:35AM (61 hours) – 1 egg crushed on June 26 at 11:39AM – Second egg crushed July 11 at 4AM
Looncam Nest 2: Egg 1: 6/17 at 8:29AM / Egg 2: 6/19 at 8:09PM (59 hours) – FIRST PIP SEEN Sunday 5:13PM. Hatch completed Monday around 11:30AM. Chick is healthy. EGG 2 retrieved on 7/17, X-Ray’d and confirmed to be inviable
Looncam 2024
Welcome to LPC’s LoonCam Live. We broadcast live from several loon nests in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire from early May through mid-July.
If you are new to the LoonCam, please consider becoming an annual member of LPC. Membership supports the preservation of loons in NH and research for loon lovers around the world.
LoonCam 2 Live Broadcast – Will restart in June, 2025
LoonCam 2 has two eggs, laid June 17 at 8:29AM and June 19 at 8:09PM, putting hatch date around July 13-17. Loon nesting was delayed this year due to geese. In 2023, the LoonCam 2 pair was successful, hatching both eggs by July 9’th. The first egg to hatch started hatching on Sunday afternoon, July 14 and completed hatching by noon on Monday, July 15’th. The second egg was not viable and retrieved on July 17.
LoonCam 1 Live Broadcast was terminated the morning of July 12’th because the loons abandoned the nest after two eggs crushed.
The first egg arrived on June 18 at 10:49AM and second on June 21 at 12:35AM, over a week later than the male’s history. Unfortunately, one of the eggs crushed on June 26 at 11:39AM. This puts the hatch date in the July 16-19 range. The female has no bands so is a new mate with no recorded history. The male, the same Loon from 2022, can be easily identified by its unique “kazoo like” voice and bands on his legs. LoonCam 1 is currently streaming from the same location as the last few years. In 2023, territorial issues prevented nesting.
Below is the 2024 season play list from Cam 1 and 2.
2024 LoonCam 1 & 2 Chat Summaries
These occasional chat summaries are written with an AI tool, crafting a narrative based on the YouTube channel chat logs.
July 16 (LC2) In the early hours, the chat was abuzz with updates and observations about the new loon chick and the remaining egg. As the first chick had hatched, the focus shifted to its well-being and the anticipation for the second egg. Clare, Béatrice, and others discussed the possibility of a pip on the second egg, but no consensus was reached. The chick was seen taking its first dip in the water, a moment that delighted all viewers. Clare and Béatrice noted the chick’s behavior and shared timestamps for key events, while the community collectively hoped for the dad to return and assist the mom.
Throughout the night and into the morning, viewers like P B and EdamameBean shared their thoughts on the chick’s health, noting that it could survive on the yolk for up to 24 hours. The chat reflected both concern and optimism, with Clare and Béatrice actively engaging in the discussion about the dad’s role and the chick’s activities. The distant calls and tremolos from the loons added to the suspense and excitement. Clare expressed hope that the dad would soon take over incubation duties or care for the chick, easing the mom’s load.
As the dawn approached, the conversation continued with updates on the chick’s activity. Clare and Béatrice confirmed hearing peeps from the second egg, indicating that hatching might be imminent. The chick’s brief swim and the mom’s protective behavior were highlights, with Clare noting how the mom quickly exited the nest when the dad arrived. The community appreciated the efforts of the Looncam Operator, who provided close-up views and valuable insights, even though a pip was not visible on the second egg.
By mid-morning, the atmosphere was a mix of anticipation and admiration. The viewers, including new joiners like Carol and Rob Stewart, discussed the chick’s antics and the dad’s presence on the nest. They shared their thoughts on the second egg, with some expressing hope for a pip soon. The chick’s cuteness and the parents’ dedication were a source of joy and fascination, as everyone eagerly awaited the next developments. The community spirit was evident as they supported each other, shared information, and celebrated the milestones in the loons’ journey.
July 14 (LC2) In a day filled with anticipation and excitement, Clare made a thrilling discovery on Loon Cam 1—a pip on one of the eggs. At first, there was some uncertainty as Clare, TucsonMacBanshee, and others tried to verify the sighting. Clare marked the timestamp at 17:13:48 and asked for others to check. After some debate and close inspection, the Loon Cam Operator confirmed that there was indeed a pip, sparking a wave of excitement among the chatters.
The chat buzzed with joy as the realization set in that the first egg was beginning to hatch. Clare proudly took credit for spotting the pip, while the Loon Cam Operator provided a video link to share the moment with all LPC subscribers. The community celebrated this milestone, with many chatters like Kelly B, Ellen Richter, and GailH expressing their excitement and gratitude for the update. The peeps from the chick became louder and more frequent, adding to the festive atmosphere.
As the evening progressed, Clare decided to get some rest, confident that the chick would take its time to hatch fully. The camaraderie and shared enthusiasm among the chatters were palpable, as everyone wished Clare a good night and eagerly anticipated the next update. The excitement of the impending hatch kept spirits high, making it a memorable and joyous day for all those following the loon cams.
July 11 (LC2) On this tumultuous day for the loon nests, excitement and concern rippled through the chat community. The morning started with the heartbreaking news from Loon Cam 1, where the last remaining egg was lost. The chat was abuzz with sadness and frustration as the loons’ wails echoed the viewers’ sentiments. As discussions about eagles and loons’ nesting behaviors filled the chat, a poignant reminder of nature’s harsh realities settled over everyone.
Meanwhile, on Loon Cam 2, tension soared when an eagle made a dramatic visit to the nest. At 9:18 AM, the chat witnessed the eagle’s presence, which sparked a wave of anxiety among the viewers. The eagle, perched near the nest, drew wails and defensive maneuvers from the loons. The eagle’s attempt to investigate the eggs was met with fierce resistance and concern from the loons and viewers alike. This incident led to a flurry of discussions and time-stamped observations, highlighting the intricate dance between predator and prey.
Throughout the day, the chat was filled with updates on the loons’ behaviors, with detailed timestamps marking every significant event. The loons’ defensive actions, including their hangover position when sensing a threat, were meticulously noted by dedicated watchers. The community’s knowledge-sharing and supportive environment were evident as they navigated the emotional rollercoaster together. Moments of calm were interspersed with bursts of wailing, adding to the day’s dramatic narrative.
In the afternoon, a trivia game lightened the mood, allowing viewers to engage in a different way. Questions about loon behaviors and characteristics brought some levity and educational value to the chat. Despite the day’s earlier stresses, the community’s camaraderie shone through as they shared trivia answers and expressed their appreciation for the loons and the efforts to protect them.
As the day drew to a close, a sense of guarded optimism emerged. The eagle had departed, and the loons resumed their duties, albeit with heightened vigilance. The chat community, though still reeling from the day’s events, expressed hope and support for the remaining nest. The shared experience of watching nature unfold in real-time, with all its unpredictability, underscored the deep connection and collective resilience of this dedicated group of loon enthusiasts.
July 3 (LC1 and 2 over several days) The past few days on Loon Cam 1 and Loon Cam 2 have been eventful. Participants appreciated the updates, especially those who couldn’t witness the events live.
Cam 2 had its share of drama and excitement. A small snapping turtle made an appearance, which the mother loon swiftly handled, and there were frequent nest exchanges between the loons. The chat community remained vigilant, noting every detail and supporting each other through the late-night watch. GailH, Clare, and EdamameBean were particularly active, providing detailed observations and timestamps, ensuring everyone stayed informed about the happenings at both nests.
The chat often took humorous turns, with participants like tailfeather and Mike M. discussing loons’ behaviors and sharing lighthearted banter. There were moments of tension, too, especially when the loons left their eggs unattended for long periods. This caused concern among the watchers, who discussed the possible reasons and solutions, showcasing their deep care and knowledge about loon behavior. The community also shared personal stories and support, such as Kelly B’s updates about her sick puppy, which brought everyone closer together.
As the days progressed, the loons’ behavior continued to fascinate and sometimes perplex the watchers. The consistency and inconsistency in incubation, the frequent exchanges between the male and female, and the occasional wildlife interruptions provided endless entertainment and learning opportunities. The dedication of the chat participants was evident as they logged shifts, noted timestamps, and shared their insights. The camaraderie among the group grew stronger, with everyone contributing to a shared goal of supporting and understanding these magnificent birds.
Overall, the past few days have been a blend of joy, concern, humor, and deep connection among the Loon Cam community. The egg watch has intensified the engagement, with participants eagerly anticipating the hatching of the eggs. The detailed observations, combined with personal anecdotes and supportive interactions, have created a rich and vibrant narrative, showcasing the beauty of nature and the strength of human connection.
June 19 LC2 Excitement soared among the chatters on Loon Cam 2 as the long-anticipated moment finally arrived—the laying of the second egg. It was a quiet evening when the familiar regulars, including Debra B, EdamameBean, and HereIamAngela, noticed the signs. The female loon, showing the characteristic hump back, settled into the nest, and the chat lit up with anticipation. “Here she goes!” cheered HereIamAngela, while Debra B kept a close watch, noting the timing and supporting the community with updates.
As the clock struck 20:09, the confirmation came from tailfeather: “Second egg laid.” Cheers and applause filled the chat. Gabby, thrilled to witness the event after missing the first egg, exclaimed, “Way to go, momma!” The communal joy was palpable, with celebratory messages from all corners. “Congrats LPC and LCO, this nest is full!” declared Debra B, capturing the collective relief and happiness.
The female loon, now visibly relaxed and relieved, settled back onto the nest, her dignified demeanor not lost on the viewers. Comments on her calmness and the smooth delivery filled the chat. “She looks happy and relieved,” observed Denise Fuller, while HereIamAngela humorously remarked on the contrast with her own post-birth experience. The chat community, having witnessed this significant milestone, shared in the joy and pride of the successful laying, highlighting the resilience and dedication of the loon pair.
As night approached, the chat began to quiet down, with many expressing their contentment and bidding each other goodnight. “Glad I popped in for the event,” said HereIamAngela, summarizing the sentiment of many. The successful laying of the second egg not only reinforced the strong bond within this community but also underscored their collective hope for the successful hatching of these new loon lives. With two eggs now nestled safely, the watchers on Loon Cam 2 look forward to the next chapter in this ongoing natural drama.
June 18 (Combined Chat Log) In an incredible development for loon enthusiasts, both Loon Cam 1 and Loon Cam 2 have welcomed their first eggs just a day apart. The excitement in the chat communities was palpable as viewers witnessed these pivotal moments live. The synchronization of events has added a layer of thrill to the observation experience, with viewers eagerly discussing the timing and characteristics of each nesting pair. Frequent chatters such as GailH, Clare, and tailfeather have been particularly active, offering insights, timestamps, and congratulations as they watched the loons’ progress unfold.
GailH, a dedicated and knowledgeable participant, often leads the discussions with detailed observations and thoughtful questions. Her passion for loons is evident as she shares personal anecdotes and historical data, helping to contextualize the behaviors observed on the cams. Gail’s excitement was mirrored by 603born, another enthusiastic chatter who often echoes Gail’s sentiments and contributes practical information and timestamps, ensuring everyone can catch up on missed events.
Clare, known for her friendly demeanor and supportive comments, brings a sense of community to the chats. Her excitement about the eggs and her frequent expressions of joy and congratulations contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere. Clare’s willingness to assist others with timestamps and her engaging conversations about loon behavior make her a beloved figure in both chat streams.
EdamameBean and Debra B add a layer of humor and camaraderie to the discussions. EdamameBean’s playful remarks and lighthearted observations often bring smiles to the community, while Debra B’s experiences and humorous comments about loons’ behaviors keep the mood light. Their interactions highlight the communal nature of the chats, as they share in the collective joy of watching the loons and learning from each other.
The simultaneous egg-laying events on both cams have created a unique dynamic, with chatters frequently switching between the two streams to stay updated. The anticipation of a second egg on each nest has kept viewers on the edge of their seats, fostering a deeper connection to the loons and their journey. This shared experience has not only enhanced the educational value of the Loon Cam project but also strengthened the bonds within this passionate community of wildlife enthusiasts.
June 17 LC2 Chat Log Narrative: Loon Cam 2 – The Egg Has Been Laid!
Exciting news from Loon Cam 2! This morning, viewers were thrilled to witness the female loon laying an egg at 8:29 AM. The chat erupted with enthusiasm and congratulations as the egg appeared on the nest. Celebratory messages and emojis filled the screen, with viewers expressing their joy and excitement for the Loon Preservation Committee and the dedicated LoonCam Operator.
Following the egg-laying, the female loon briefly left the nest, giving everyone a clear view of the precious egg nestled in the deep nest bowl. Tailfeather explained that it’s normal for the loons to leave the egg unincubated initially to allow the second egg, if laid, to catch up. This ensures that both eggs will hatch around the same time. The loons were seen taking turns on the nest, with the male inspecting, turning the egg and settling into the nest while the female took a break from her labor.
The LoonCam Operator shared a clip of the momentous event and another video showing a close encounter with an intruding loon earlier in the day. This sparked discussions about the protective behaviors of loons and their nesting habits. As the day progressed, viewers remained engaged, sharing their excitement and gratitude for the updates. With the first egg laid, everyone is eagerly anticipating the next steps in this thrilling loon nesting season. Stay tuned for more updates and watch as this journey unfolds!
June 8 LC2 Chat Log Narrative: Welcome to Loon Cam 2! Currently, we are in a waiting period as the geese that took over the nest might have left. Despite the disruption, the chat community has been active and hopeful for the loons’ return.
Recently, the goose has had quite an eventful time with her single remaining egg. Viewers noted that she rolled the egg out of the nest twice and even had to fend off a water vole early in the morning. The resilience of this egg is remarkable, but the goose’s clumsy handling has everyone on edge. Throughout the day, we observed the geese coming and going, with some tense moments as the loons were spotted nearby, seemingly eager to reclaim their platform.
There is a shared sentiment among viewers that the loons are becoming restless and might soon take over the nest if the geese leave for good. The LoonCam Operator (LCO) has mentioned plans to clean up the nest and prepare it for the loons once it’s confirmed that the geese have vacated. We are all eagerly watching, hopeful that the loons will soon have their nest back. Stay tuned for updates and keep an eye on the live stream as we await the next exciting development in this nesting season!
May 30 LC1 Chat Log Narrative: Thursday’s activity at the loon nest was filled with lively interactions, observations, and a touch of humor. The morning began with a successful mic replacement, significantly improving the sound quality for viewers. Clare started the afternoon with some “housekeeping” and a gorgeous close-up of the papa loon. This led to discussions about the lake’s natural origins and the nesting behaviors of the male loon, who often prepares the nest before the female lays eggs. Viewers reminisced about past seasons, noting the absence of bands on the female loon and speculating that she might be new to the territory. The male’s frequent show-off of his bands provided some light-hearted moments, contrasting with the meticulous scrutiny of the female’s legs to confirm her identity.
Sue R shared her excitement about her upcoming trip to check on loons at her own lake, sparking conversations about loon sightings and nesting success at other locations. IvandaVGV humorously commented on the time slipping away while watching the loons, a sentiment echoed by many dedicated viewers who found themselves glued to the screen. The chat was interspersed with friendly greetings, reminding everyone of the community spirit and the joy of shared observations, encouraging more detailed contributions.
As evening fell, the loons returned to the nest, creating a picturesque moment before sunset. Around 7:38 PM, the female joined the male on the nest, and their affectionate behavior led some viewers to liken them to lovebirds. The male’s gentle cooing and the female’s graceful movements, even when she occasionally stumbled, captivated the audience. The LoonCam Operator updated the group on the second loon cam, now occupied by geese, leading to discussions about future solutions to prevent such takeovers. The day ended with viewers noting various wildlife, including wood ducks and dragonflies, and sharing their personal stories of loon interactions. The serene sunset and the loons’ interactions left everyone hopeful for successful nesting soon.
May 29 Chat Log Narrative: Wednesday’s activity at the loon nest provided viewers with a blend of wildlife interactions and ongoing debates about the loons’ identities. The day started with Angela sharing her experiences with loon territories and conflicts, highlighting the fierce nature of loon fights, especially between females. Around 11:44 AM, a loon was spotted beyond Turtle Rock, and shortly after, both loons were seen beside the nest, attempting to mate. This interaction led to discussions about the female’s identity, with viewers debating whether she was banded. Despite careful observation, no definitive conclusion was reached, leaving the community uncertain if she was a new mate.
Throughout the day, various wildlife sightings and behaviors kept the chat lively. There were reflections on past loon fights, humorous exchanges about the loon’s kazoo-like calls, and notes about the loons’ nesting behaviors. By evening, more wildlife, including dragonflies, hummingbirds, and wood ducks, were spotted. The night ended with viewers appreciating the serene setting, sharing their thoughts on the loons’ activities and the beauty of the lake, while remaining hopeful for the loons to establish their nest and lay eggs soon.
May 27 Chat Log Narrative: Memorial Day at the loon nest was filled with activity and wildlife sightings, keeping the community of watchers thoroughly engaged. Early in the day, around 9:54 AM, yodels and distant tremolos were heard, setting a lively tone. The loons made several appearances, with the male being particularly prominent on the nest around 11:43 AM, showcasing his iridescent green necklace and distinctive bands. Observers enjoyed close-up views of the loons and discussed the nesting behaviors, noting the male’s devotion to preparing the nest for egg-laying.
Throughout the day, other wildlife added to the excitement. A kingfisher made a brief appearance, and a pair of mallards was spotted around 5 PM, creating a stir as they landed on the nest. The day also featured underwater tours of the loons and sightings of blooming water lilies. Despite some rain, the community remained captivated by the loons’ activities, eagerly anticipating the laying of eggs. The day ended with reflections on the harmonious yet bustling environment of the lake, with hopes for a successful nesting season.
May 26 Chat Log Narrative: Today’s loon nest live stream was full of engaging moments and notable wildlife sightings. Early in the morning, around 6:18 AM, the loons were particularly active, described as “frisky” by viewers. The lighting on the lake created a mesmerizing effect, likened to a disco ball, enhancing the visual experience for those tuned in.
By midday, the male loon was observed on the nest at 12:57 PM, identified by his distinctive kazoo-like voice and leg bands. This sparked a lively discussion about the loons’ nesting behaviors, with viewers noting that the male often prepares the nest before the female lays her eggs. The camera captured the loons engaging in playful activities, such as splashing and pushing water with their beaks, providing delightful entertainment for the audience.
Other wildlife made appearances as well. Around 3:34 PM, a wood duck was spotted at Turtle Rock, attracting attention and appreciation from viewers. The interaction between the wood duck and a nearby turtle added an extra layer of charm to the day’s observations.
In the evening, around 7:13 PM, the loons returned, swimming and diving underwater, adding to the day’s excitement. Their movements were quick and graceful, capturing the viewers’ admiration. The day ended with a beautiful sunset, providing a picturesque backdrop to the loons’ activities, making for a perfect end to a lively day at the lake
May 23 – Male sat on nest twice, hinting that nesting will start within a week.
May 10 – Live Stream started on LPC YouTube Channel
Happy Ending
July 11, 2023
It was a successful hatch. Chick 1 emerged from its shell at 9:59 pm on July 8 and Chick 2 joined the fun around 3:30 pm on the 9th. At 17.5 hours, this was one of the shorter durations between hatches.
Much to our relief, Chick 2 was a feisty one and when the inevitable sibling brawl developed, #2 held its own. It took quite a beating but it kept fighting back. After a few minutes the chicks rolled off the raft in a mutual bear hug and thus was started the aquatic portion of the contest. Chick 1 won by a technical knockout when Chick 2 played dead by floating face down in the water. But by the time #1 climbed back on the raft to receive the gold medal #2 was attacking from behind and trying to drag #1 back in the water. And then #1 was doing the dragging. Mom intervened by inserting her bill between the two and forcing them to accept a truce.
Mom and Dad gave the chicks a couple of days near the nesting area to work things out to a mutual toleration. But the long stay also could have been due to neighboring loons standing between them and the brooding area (shades of last year’s siege). It’s likely that it was a combination of the two that made them stay near the nest. The chicks got to eat and practice their swimming skills, as well as learning to quickly climb up on their parents’ backs. Good skills to have when cruising through treacherous waters.
At 7:47 am today the family left the nesting area. A few minutes later we heard a short chorus of yodels and tremolos, an announcement of their territorial rights. Two strong and healthy chicks and two proud parents. You can’t do better than that!
Talking Eggs
July 5, 2023
So what does the title of this blog mean? Am I talking about eggs? Or am I saying that eggs can talk? A bit of both, actually.
We’re getting close to “pip watch” time. The pip is the first tiny hole in the egg, made by the chick as it begins pecking its way out of the shell. You can look for the pip when the adults are getting off and on the nest and when they are doing egg rolls. You need to see the blunt end of the egg; that’s where the pip first forms. I would expect to see the first pip on Friday or Saturday. But I’ve been wrong before so it’s worth keeping an eye on the eggs before then.
But before we see a pip, we are apt to hear muffled peeps coming from the chick inside the egg. That and the reactions of the adult sensing movement are apt to be the first signs that a hatch is imminent.
Two studies have shown that late-stage embryos in bird eggs can communicate with each other. A 1966 study found that the earliest laid eggs in a clutch of quail eggs would begin clicking 12 to 18 hours before hatch. The eggs that were laid later would respond to the clicking and the entire clutch would hatch hatch at the same time. This allowed the mother to forage for food without having any unattended eggs. Eggs experimentally separated from each other would hatch as much as two days apart.
A 2019 study of yellow-legged gull eggs showed that late stage embryos could detect warning calls of adult birds and communicate the danger to their nest mates. This resulted in the hatchlings presenting much more cautious behavior. The article I read didn’t specify but I would assume that meant less movement and less vocalization.
There haven’t been any similar studies on loon eggs but, considering that loon chicks are precocial (ready to jump in the water and swim after hatching), it’s a safe bet that by now these eggs are holding two conscious, sentient beings. I wonder if they are communicating with each other. I wonder if chick 1 is telling chick 2, “Stay out of my way, shrimp. I eat first!”
Loons and the Fourth
July 1, 2023
The long holiday weekend begins and the lakes fill up with people ready to party. It’s a good time to talk about fireworks, as well as boating etiquette.
This time of year we frequently get questions about fireworks disturbing nesting loons. Although there have been no rigorous studies into the possible effects of fireworks on nesting loons, LPC has crunched some numbers to see if there is any correlation between the July 4th fireworks and nest failures. None was found. Observations of loons during firework displays show varying degrees of alertness but little more than that. This fact sheet will give you more details.
On the other hand, fireworks can introduce perchlorate contamination to the water. On small lakes, levels can exceed standards considered to be safe. The good news is that the level of contaminants usually drops back to normal within 24 hours. Those using fireworks can minimize the chance of contamination by launching from an area that does not drain into the lake and by raking up any debris left from the fireworks. NH Dept. of Environmental Services has a useful fact sheet for those launching fireworks over a lake.
A more immediate danger for loons is poor boating etiquette. Ignoring “no wake” zones can cause nest flooding and possibly nest failure. And it’s important to remember that not all no wake zones are signed. Any time you are within 150 feet of the shore (including islands) you should be going at headway speed. And keep an eye out for chicks; there are quite a few of them out on the lakes now. An adult loon has little problem dodging boats but chicks are quite vulnerable to boat strikes. Let’s make this a safe holiday for the wildlife as well as the humans.
Mom’s Ex
June 26, 2023
If you are a regular follower of LPC’s loon cams, you probably know that the male on Cam 2 is a fairly recent addition to the territory. In 2021 this territory was in a state of chaos and upheaval. Multiple intruders wreaked enough havoc to prevent any nesting attempt, similar to what is happening on Cam 1 this year.
In 2022, an unbanded male emerged as the new resident Dad. As far as we can tell, he is back again this year. Things have been going so smoothly that it’s highly likely that the pair has previously been together.
But what about Mom’s ex? How’s he doing? Well, he’s doing. Recently he was seen on the outer edge of this territory and over the past year and a half he’s been seen all over the bay in which this territory is located. He’s been a “local” loon since at least 2006, when he was banded as the resident loon on a territory next door to this territory. This is fairly typical. A general rule of thumb is that an adult loon will rarely move more than ten miles from where it first establishes residence.
Mom’s ex is still unpaired and living the vagabond life. We can calculate that he is at least 20 years old and maybe closer to 30. It’s probably getting tough for him to contend with the six to ten year-olds in the prime of their lives. But he still has a chance. It’s well documented that thirty year-olds can still be productive.
Détente on Cam One
June 20, 2023
It’s been about seven weeks that we’ve been watching our cam 1 pair try to maintain control over the territory, sometimes with as many as three intruders at the same time. The female was seen beached once, which is strong evidence that she was in an altercation with an intruding female. However, she appears to be back in the water and holding her own.
Things have quieted down some. Lately, for the most part, we’ve only been seeing three loons with very little antagonistic behavior. It seems they are in a stalemate; sort of like your deadbeat uncle comes for a visit and refuses to leave.
Such a situation is not that rare. Sometimes it can last an entire season or even multiple seasons. I can remember two instances from my field biology days where the reluctant couple tolerated the uninvited guest through an entire season. The three were even seen working together to chase off a new intruder and taking a daytime nap together, all within 10 feet of each other. Any thoughts of nesting were abandoned; it came to simply accepting their fate and staying on territory.
Is that what’s happening on Cam 1? It sure seems like it. There’s only two weeks left until it will be too late to start a nest that has any reasonable chance of producing a surviving chick that’s ready to fly off the lake before ice-in. The pair hasn’t even shown any interest in the nesting raft. The situation would have to change very quickly.
Two Eggs, by the (revised) Book
June 15, 2023
Our Cam 2 pair deposited their second egg in the nest yesterday morning, exactly 62 hours and 30 minutes after the first egg was laid. Going by the general rule of thumb I learned when I was first introduced to the natural history of loons (2 eggs one or two days apart), we might think this was an abnormally long time between appearances but loon cam records over the past seven years show otherwise.
Of the nine nests where we are sure of the dates and times for both eggs (+/- an hour or so) we get an average of about 61 hours between eggs and a range of 58¼ to 63½. If we make subsets of the three females we’ve been following over this period, their individual time ranges are even smaller. Female #1 (the old Cam 1) had a range of 58¼ to 59½. Female #2 (Cam 2) has range of 61 to 63½. Female #3 (the current Cam 1) has two clutches so far, both had 62¼ hours between eggs. I feel comfortable in saying that our New Hampshire loons lay eggs about two and a half days apart.
So where did this “one to two days apart” thing come from? Well, for starters, we’ve never had 24/7 observation coverage until the loon cams became a thing. Prior to that, the best any nest had was a daily visit. Biologists covering numerous small lakes scattered over a region of the state would be doing fantastic work just to get weekly visits. The one data point we had to get was the OTN (on the nest) date. More often than not, that was “calculated”: the date half-way between two inspection dates. Determining the time between eggs was a practical impossibility..
The other issue is that the first egg is usually only sporadically incubated. A biologist might pass by the nest and not see a loon sitting on it, and just move on, not realizing that there was an egg in the bottom of the nest. Many recorded OTN dates are likely to be a day or two after the first egg was laid. And then after all that, the eggs hatch about a day apart. Logical reasoning based on low-accuracy data would result in an estimate of one or two days between eggs being laid.
This is just one of the revelations the loon cams have provided us. They will continue to give us more insights into the lives of breeding loons.
Will Two Become One?
June 8, 2023
We’ve had a good thing going for the past six years: two live loon cams with dependable pairs that consistently begin nesting at different times. Loon cam 1 would get on the nest in late May and loon cam 2 would get started in mid-June. This gave us eight to ten weeks of non-stop action. But this year the loon world seems to have turned on its head.
The Cam 1 pair was on the lake when the live stream went public in early May. That’s the good news. The bad news is that they had up to three other loons as company. And so the territorial dispute(s) began. Reports from residents at the far end of the lake indicate that it was the female that was getting the heaviest competition from one or more the the intruders. At present, there continues to be a stand-off with occasional one-on-one fights. The pair is holding their own so far and they even get some personal time to inspect the nest raft. But that’s a far cry from their past standard that would have them near half way through incubation by now. It’s not to late for a successful nest; time will tell.
The Cam 2 pair were already mating before the live stream went public on June 2nd. Since then there have been about a dozen copulation events on the nest raft. We can expect an egg any time now. If it arrives before June 11th it will be the earliest on-the-nest date that we have for this territory. So, should loon cam 2 become loon cam 1 next year? That’s a question for our loon cam guru to ponder. One thing is certain: you’re living dangerously if you attempt to predict what the loons will do next.
Eagles and Loons
May 31, 2023
Four loons on one small lake should be enough of a disruption for a territorial loon pair. Imagine living in an environment where you are subject to attack, not only from any side, but also from beneath. It’s no wonder that birds and aquatic mammals can practice unihemispheric sleep. Otherwise, it would be near impossible to get any rest.
To add insult to injury, the local bald eagle pair has been regularly visiting the lake, making it necessary for the loons to be constantly aware of what’s going on above as well as beneath them. This clip demonstrates the chaos eagles can inflict on loons. Although an eagle can rarely take an adult loon, it does happen on occasion. Loon chicks are much more susceptible to eagles, as evidenced in this clip.
But loons can fight back. In the summer of 2019 a dead eagle was found floating in a Maine lake. A necropsy showed that it had been stabbed through the heart. Further investigation revealed that the carcass of a newly hatched loon chick was also found nearby. The conclusion was that the eagle got the chick but an adult loon got the eagle, using the same tactics employed for protecting it’s territory from intruding loons.
Eagles have been making a strong comeback in New Hampshire. Considered extirpated in the 1970s, mostly due to the pesticide, DDT, the first confirmed territorial eagle pair returned in 1988. They remained as the only known pair for ten years, but around the year 2000 the population began a rapid increase. The 2022 census counted 92 territorial pairs in New Hampshire. The majority are along the Connecticut River and in the Lakes Region.
LPC has been following New Hampshire Audubon’s eagle population surveys and a study led by LPC Senior Biologist John Cooley showed that loons near an eagle nest experienced a higher rate of nest failures. This could be a cause for concern but, compared to anthropogenic stressors such as lead tackle, boat collisions and habitat degradation, eagles do not appear to cause any significant population effects. Eagles and loons have dealt with each other since time immemorial. They will both continue to prosper as long as we practice good stewardship.
It’s Not Too Late
May 23, 2023
So here we are, watching three to five loons chase each other around the lake as the end of the month nears. And we haven’t even gotten band readings to confirm that the resident pair is in the mix. I’m tempted to say that the competition is narrowing down to three loons. But I know better. Tomorrow there might be a half-dozen loons out there. There’s no telling if and when the loons will be ready to nest.
However, it’s way too early to start worrying. Statewide, most loon nests are initiated during the first two weeks in June. Recently, this territory has been known to start nesting in the last week in May. But that’s only been true starting in 2019. Before that, the current pair got on the nest around June 7, +/- 3 days. The latest known successful nest in this territory was initiated on June 15, 1992. But that was a second attempt. For first attempts, the latest nest initiation was on June 14, the following year (1993). Imagine the troubles that pair had to overcome!
Let’s hope for sooner than later, But, if need be, let’s not fret until we’re at least a week into June. In the past 48 years there have been only 4 years when there was no nesting attempt. So we have an eleven in twelve chance of seeing a nest this year.
Dad’s Distinctive Voice
May 19, 2023
I first noticed it last year, as did many of the regulars on chat. The Cam 1 male has his own peculiar accent. There is a hoarseness to it and he has trouble with the higher notes. His wails tend to be truncated and, when he yodels, the octave jump is a hurdle he can barely manage.
There is one glaringly likely reason for this speech impediment. When loons are fighting over a territory – and Dad has had plenty of one-on-one knock-down-dragouts in his life – a popular tactic is to grab your opponent’s neck with your bill and drag his head underwater. So I’m putting my money on an old war injury that didn’t completely heal.
But his injury doesn’t seem to affect him much, even though loons use inflection to judge an opponent’s demeanor and fitness (check out Jay Mager’s work on loon vocalizations). He has a number of tricks up his sleeve to let other loons know he means business, including some great body postures. He proved that last year when intruders showed up right at hatch time. The fact that both chicks hatched and survived to the end of the season is a testament to his fitness.
And for us, it’s a blessing. We can often identify him when he’s across the lake, with no chance of a band reading.
The Price of Success
May 10, 2023
Success breeds envy in onlookers. And envy can breed animosity and treachery. So it is with loons as well as humans. If you can consistently hatch two chicks year after year, less successful loons will know about it and they won’t be shy about attempting to take over your territory. Our pair has returned (at least we can assume that until we verify by band readings) and there’s been no shortage of visiting loons getting in their face.
This clip is a good example. One loon is chasing another loon while a third loon casually floats nearby and seems to pay little notice. As long as the loons have read the manual, we can partially ascertain the identity of at least one of the loons. The disinterested loon is one of the resident pair. The chaser and chase-ee are of the same sex. We can only hope that the resident is the chaser. At this point, before the pair has made a significant investment by laying eggs in the nest, an intruding loon is likely to only draw the ire of the resident of the same sex. The disinterested loon is not having its right to the territory challenged and may or may not care which of the other two prevails. After all, you want the most fit mate you can get. After eggs are laid, things can change. Both loons are likely to challenge any intruder. No one wants to lose their home equity.
Intruders have been showing up frequently, and often more than one at a time. It may take a while for the situation to stabilize but they have plenty of time. They usually nest around May 24 to 28.