Volunteer Loon Watcher Survey

Purpose Observe nesting and behavioral information on common loons,and return data to the MN DNR Nongame Wildlife Program.

Desired outcomes: "Loon Watchers" observe loons on their lake and report at the end of the season. Volunteers provide information on nesting success, number of loons observed, and interesting occurrences and problems that may negatively affect the loons.

Impact this position will have: Information collected as part of the survey provides the Nongame Wildlife Program insight into loon nesting information and potential threats to loons on lakes across Minnesota.

Benefits to the Volunteer 

Opportunity to support loon conservation in Minnesota.

Responsibilities 

Authorized work:

1. Summarize loon observations throughout the season.
- Mode of observation: Shoreline or observational platforms
- Lake ice data: Ice off/on dates should only be recorded if observed.
- Nesting locations: Record observed loon nesting locations (if applicable). This includes artificial nesting platforms used and/or unused.
- Area of the lake surveyed: Specify whether a portion or the entire lake was surveyed.
- Number of active nests observed: Active nest (adult loons observed sitting on nest, unattended eggs in a nest, or chick observed hatching).
- Comments: Additional behavioral or locational data 

2. Returning data forms.

To be returned as soon as ice has fully formed on the lake and/or loons are no longer observed. All forms must be returned by December 15.

Restricted work:

  NOTE: Watercraft operation is not a requirement for participating in the Loon Watcher Survey.

Harassment of loons and other wildlife is against the law, and prohibited. Volunteer Loon Watchers are prohibited from taking or disturbing loon nests, loon eggs, loon feathers, or deceased loons. For more information, please visit the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). For questions regarding restricted work, please contact the Loon Watcher Survey Coordinator (LoonWatcherSurvey.DNR@state.mn.us).

Qualifications needed: 

• Ability to visually observe
• Ability to write down observations

Safety training topics to be covered with volunteers: 

• Ticks
• Heat and Cold Related Illness

Minimum Time Commitment: 

One survey per month from May through August

DNR Contact Person:  Tim Mitchell, Loon Program Coordinator

Sign up:

• Complete the online application
• Please note that this application will time out after 30 minutes of no activity
• After you sign up, you will be prompted to email the Loon Watcher Coordinator with information about the lake, county, and lake ID of the lake you wish to survey. You can find the lake ID here: LakeFinder | Minnesota DNR