A Song That Haunts the Lakes
If you’ve ever spent a quiet evening near a northern lake, chances are you’ve heard it—that eerie, tremolo call drifting across the water like a ghost of the wilderness. The common loon (Gavia immer) is more than just a bird; it’s a symbol of solitude, wildness, and the deep stillness of nature. Their calls range from mournful wails to yodels that echo across the surface, each one a language of territory, courtship, and connection.
They Wear Drama Like a Cloak
In summer, loons dazzle with black heads, dagger-like bills, and checkerboard backs that shimmer under sunlight. Their red eyes pierce the water as they dive for fish. Built for swimming, loons push through lakes with powerful strokes, thanks to legs set far back on their bodies. On land, they waddle awkwardly—but in water, they reign. You’ll rarely see a loon on land unless it’s nesting.
Photo Credit Jim Neumann
Parenting on the Water
Loons nest close to shore, often on small islands or floating vegetation. Both parents share the duties, and once the chicks hatch, they ride on their parents’ backs to stay warm and safe. It’s one of nature’s most endearing sights—tiny fluffballs hitching a ride across the lake.
Photo credit Jim Neumann
A Shout-Out to My Brother
This post wouldn’t be complete without a huge shout-out to my brother, Jim, whose loon photography captures their mystique with breathtaking clarity. His lens finds the soul of these birds—the shimmer of water, the intensity of their gaze, the quiet power of their presence. His photos remind us that loons aren’t just birds; they’re storytellers of the wild.
Photo Credit Jim Neumann
Where to Spot Them
In Massachusetts, loons are more common in the Berkshires and northern lakes. They have been spotted in places like Quabbin Reservoir. During migration you might even find them near coastal waters. Keep your ears open and your binoculars ready—these birds are worth the wait.
Photo credit Jim Neumann
My brother’s Photos were taken on Lake George, NY
Bird on a wire
