The Captivating Lake Michigan Loon: A Birder’s Guide

Lake Michigan is a significant habitat for the Common Loon, a large waterbird known for its distinctive calls and impressive diving abilities. These majestic birds are a beloved sight for nature enthusiasts and birders alike, and their presence on the lake adds to the region’s natural beauty.

Preferred Nesting Sites

Common Loons on Lake Michigan typically choose to nest in sheltered areas, such as islands and bog mats at the water’s edge. These locations provide protection from predators and human disturbance, which is crucial for successful breeding and chick rearing.

Habitat Features

The habitat where Common Loons are found on Lake Michigan includes:

1. Large Lakes: As their name suggests, Common Loons require large bodies of water to accommodate their deep diving and lengthy takeoffs into flight. Lake Michigan, being one of the Great Lakes, provides an ideal environment for these birds.
2. Sheltered Islands: Islands on Lake Michigan offer sheltered areas for nesting and rearing chicks, protecting them from strong winds and waves.
3. Bog Mats: Floating mats of vegetation, known as bog mats, provide additional sheltered areas for nesting and can be found in the lake’s shallow waters.

Management Practices

To ensure the continued presence of Common Loons on Lake Michigan, various management practices are implemented to minimize human disturbance during the breeding season:

1. Avoid Maintenance Activities: Maintenance activities within 1/4 mile of active nests are avoided during the breeding season to prevent disturbance.
2. Schedule Construction: Construction, maintenance, or habitat management activities are scheduled during the non-breeding season (September to February) to minimize disturbance.
3. Herbicide Application: Herbicides used to control aquatic vegetation are applied only outside the nesting season on lakes where loons nest, particularly on small lakes.

Additional Information

Migration

Common Loons migrate to Lake Michigan from the coastal United States, with sightings reported across the southern parts of the Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula.

Breeding Season

The breeding season for Common Loons on Lake Michigan typically occurs from May to July, with nesting and chick rearing taking place during this period.

Conservation Status

Common Loons are listed as threatened in Michigan, with an estimated 500-700 nesting pairs in the state. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect their populations and ensure their continued presence on Lake Michigan.

References

1. MLive.com – “Loons are returning to Michigan lakes; where to look for these graceful birds”
2. Michigan Nature – “Michigan’s Amazing Animals: Common Loon”
3. Michigan Natural Features Inventory – “Gavia immer (Common Loon)”