No, enter the name of your lake.

Sometimes, observations can be made from the shore if you can see the entire lake or the specific section of a large lake you’re focusing on. However, a boat may be necessary to explore parts of some lakes that aren’t visible from the shore.

Yes, all observations are important for our research. On the form, enter “0” in the box for the number of chicks or young birds.

No, you should avoid getting close to the nests so as not to interfere with breeding.

Avoid getting within 60 meters of them. If they approach you at a closer distance, do not try to get any closer.

At least 8 hours, or 2 hours each month (June, July, August, and September). However, it is important to devote enough time to each observation of loons to confirm with certainty their presence or absence (information that is just as important). Keep in mind that adults may be away for several hours visiting other lakes or foraging, and one of the pair may be difficult to spot while incubating the eggs. After the chicks hatch, loons are generally easier to observe, since at least one adult usually stays with them.

Of course! You can continue to enter your data on NatureCounts and complete the survey file for your lake.

The form allows you to distinguish between different pairs on the same lake (pair 1, pair 2, etc.). This way, you can indicate the number of young observed for each pair. When you fill out the form each month, be sure to assign the same number to each pair from one visit to the next to ensure proper tracking.

No problem. In fact, your observations need to be made over the weekend.