Very wonderful to read how NH addressed the stranded loon(s) issue vs the natural selection default mode in VT. There must be some sound logic to explain the difference, VT can't be that callous and indifferent. Can it ? Michael. 

----- Original Message -----

From: "Linda Howes" <[log in to unmask]> 
To: [log in to unmask] 
Sent: Wednesday, January 27, 2016 3:21:54 PM 
Subject: [UVB] 5 loons rescued on Lake Sunapee! 

After the unfortunate loon event on Lake Morey I'm so happy to report the rescue of 5 adult loons on NH's Lake Sunapee. 

It all began when Jamie Hess of the Nordic Skater mentioned seeing 3 loons in a small puddle of open water on Sunday on a skating listserv post. I was not about to let what happened on Morey happen again! Yesterday, a group of us joined John Cooley, Senior Biologist with LPC (Loon Preservation Committee) in a rescue attempt. He was well equipped with an immersion suit (recently purchased and used only once before), an aluminum jon-boat, nets, totes etc. It took skill, nimbleness, and patience. 

While scouting for a quicker way to shore a second hole was found with 2 more loons! In 5 hours we were able to rescue all 5 loons. I can only wonder how many more might still be out there. 

Loons need a long runway for take off which they were unable to do from this small pocket of water which they kept open with their bills. Four of the five loons were incapable of flight, as they had molted their primary feathers, which happens this time of year. One of the loons was banded in 1998 on Sand Pond in Marlow, NH. After arriving at LPC they were banded, blood samples and other measurements were taken. They were then on their way to an Avian rehab center and will hopefully soon be released on the ocean. 

Unfortunately, with our changing climate we will most likely be seeing even more of this. If a loon is heard or seen this time of year either LPC, VFWD (Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department), or VCE (Vermont Center for Ecostudies) should be notified. LPC's John Cooley did an amazing job with these rescues and will have much to share with his colleagues. 




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