LOON ICING EVENT ACROSS NORTHERN WISCONSIN
Advocacy Alert
Dear Loon Rangers and Loon Enthusiasts,
Over the last two days northern Wisconsin has had a lot of mixed precipitation including snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Unfortunately, this coincides with migration, and has caused a "Loon Fallout". Some migrating loons have become encased in ice as they flew at altitude, and fell in an uncontrolled landing. According to Marge Gibson from REGI loons have been seen on land in Wausau, Gleason, Stratford, Neva, Rice Lake and Antigo. It is likely injured loons may be found in other areas from this event as well.
Loons are water birds and are specially adapted for swimming and diving, and CANNOT WALK ON LAND. They can scoot using their wings and feet, but will likely injure themselves in the process of trying to find a water body. Loons need a 1/4 mile aquatic runway to be able to achieve flights, so those loons on land that are not rescued will either succumb to predation or the elements.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND AN INJURED LOON
1. Never leave the loon. Contact rescuers to let them know about the location and condition of the loon, and they will advise you.
Loon Rescue: 715-966-5415
Raptor Education Group, Inc: 715-623-4015
2. To prevent the loon from scooting away, place a blanket or towel on top of the loon. NEVER swaddle a loon. Loons do not have diaphragms, and would not be able to breathe if swaddled.
3. Loons can be difficult to handle and will not understand that you are trying to help it. Be aware of the very sharp bill that they use to defend themselves.
4. The loon rescue groups may be able to talk you through the procedure to handle the loon. If you do feel comfortable, place the loon in a large rubbermaid box or large sturdy cardboard box with holes punched in the top. Crinkle up newspaper to line the bottom of the box and put a towel on top. This provides cushion for their V-shaped keel and prevents injury.
5. Loons need to be returned to large water bodies, NOT PONDS. Loons require a 1/4 mile aquatic runway to achieve flight. If they are left on a small pond, they will attempt to leave via land and will likely succumb to the elements or predation.
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LoonWatch [2] is a program of the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute at Northland College [3].
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Ashland, WI 54806