This has been a tough spring for the loons. They got off to a late start because of the late ice out and then they were driven from the nest by black flies. Loon black flies are a specific type of fly that targets loons. They are around every spring, however, their peek population usually occurs before the loons are sitting on eggs. In year with late springs, the peak black fly population occurs when the loons are sitting and they are frequently forced to abandon the eggs to survive the flies. The flys die out within a couple of weeks and the loons usually nest again. I corresponded with Michigan and Wisconsin loon managers and the problem was wide spread.
The good news is that as of this morning (Thursday, May 26, 2011) the loons are back on the nest and hopefully will lay eggs again. This same situation occurred in 2008 when 2 eggs were abandoned, however, they nested again and produced 1 chick.
We are looking into possible ways to deter the black flies and there is some information that indicates cedar chips may reduce the problem. If use of cedar chips is recommended by the local Forest Service loon ranger next year we will give them a try. The photograph below is of one of the loons on the nest this morning taken by Bob Turnquist. Click on the photo to enlarge it.
Tom Wheeler
