Did you know that Common Loons need a 100- to 600-foot water “runway” to take off? Or that once airborne, they can reach flight speeds of 40-75 mph? How long do loons live? Where do they go in winter? What’s that loony laughing all about? Find answers to these questions, and discover more fascinating facts in our updated Guide for Boaters or on our Guided Loon Adventure this summer in the Northeast Kingdom!

Tucked into Vermont’s northeastern corner – a stone’s throw from Canada – lies the tiny town of Averill. Moose outnumber people (the 2010 census counted 24 residents), and the night sky is truly dark. Here, three watery gems – Forest, Great Averill, and Little Averill lakes – host the fascinating and unrivaled spectacle of nesting Common Loons. The Vermont Center for Ecostudies invites you to join us for a brand new VCE adventure: 3 days of exploring loon lakes, birding boreal forests, and simply enjoying this remote, special place.

For three days, your guides are premier biologists and birders: VCE’s Chris Rimmer, Conservation Biologist, Eric Hanson, and Susan Hindinger. In addition to leading daily birding walks, paddling excursions to observe and monitor loon activity, and natural history rambles, Chris, Eric, and Susan will offer informal talks and programs over dessert each evening. Learn more about this spectacular field trip and reserve your spot as space is limited!

​ Visit https://vtecostudies.org/loon-trip/​

Chances are good that you’ll be treated to the sights and sounds of Common Loon life while boating this summer, thanks to three decades of recovery work by Vermont Loon Conservation Project partners, dedicated volunteers, and responsible boaters and anglers. Download a copy of the new Updated Guide for Boaters or look for copies at most Vermont state parks and public boat ramps on lakes that host nesting loons. Informed lake users are vital to future conservation of Vermont’s loons – so pick up a guide, and we’ll see you on the water!