2008 Maine Loon Count Finds Rebounding Adult Population

FALMOUTH, Maine, January 13, 2009—After two consecutive years of declining numbers, findings from the 2008 Maine Audubon Loon Count show that the state’s adult loon population is rebounding.

Over a thousand citizen-scientist volunteers—a record turnout—helped conduct the 25th annual Maine Audubon Loon Count in July. Surveying 332 lakes and ponds across Maine one morning, the group recorded a total of 2,083 adult loons and 184 chicks.

Of the statewide total, 1,728 adults and 164 chicks were seen on 280 lakes in the southern half of Maine. Using a sample of results from this region, Maine Audubon has estimated the adult common loon population in southern Maine to be 2,784—up from 2,432 adults in 2007 and 2,595 in 2006.

“We were worried that there would be a drop in the adult population for an unprecedented third year in a row,” said Susan Gallo, Maine Audubon wildlife biologist and director of the Maine Loon Project. “The bounce back is a relief and puts the population back on a healthy track.”

The estimate of southern Maine’s chick population for 2008 was 265, a drop from 2007’s nearly record high of 422. Swings in the chick population are typical from year to year, and the population has remained stable over time.

While weather conditions stayed mostly favorable for loons leading up to 2008’s count day, consistent rains in the weeks after may have had a negative impact on survival rates. With enough heavy rain, lake levels can rise enough to flood nests on the shore.

As the biggest citizen-science wildlife-monitoring project in New England, Maine Audubon's loon count is the centerpiece of the Maine Loon Project. Through the project, Maine Audubon actively engages people in conservation, educates the public about loon biology, and collects the scientific data needed to advocate for legislation that benefits loons.

Volunteers are needed for the 2009 count, which is scheduled for July 18. “The record number of volunteers participating last summer was a pleasant surprise,” said Gallo. “People’s enthusiasm about the loon count—no matter how old they are—is always amazing.” Members of one count team on Echo Lake in Fayette ranged in age from 9 months to 103 years.

For more information, contact Maine Loon Project Director Susan Gallo at (207) 781-2330, ext. 216, or sgallo@maineaudubon.org.

MAINE AUDUBON works to conserve Maine’s wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people of all ages in education, conservation and action. For more than 160 years, Maine Audubon has been connecting people with nature and leading science-based conservation in major projects across the state. An independent affiliate of Audubon’s national organization, Maine Audubon has seven local chapters, 11 nature centers and sanctuaries, and 11,000 members and supporters.

##