Good news from the dead of winter: Maine's loon population is on the rise.
According to a press release from Maine Audubon, after two years of declining numbers, the 2008 state loon count showed that loons are rebounding across Maine.
Over a thousand citizen-scientist volunteers helped conduct the 25th anniversary of the Maine Loon Count last July. Surveying 332 lakes and ponds across Maine one morning, the group recorded more than 2,000 loons.
There were 2,083 adults and 184 chicks in all.
"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, but 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.
The 2009 count 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
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