Growing up, I had the privilege of living on beautiful Kenogami Lake. One of the benefits of living on the lake was falling asleep to the incredible sounds of the common loon. I think the loon has one of the coolest bird calls that I have ever heard, however, I am not here to talk about the loon calls. Nope, today I wanted to discuss the position of the loon’s feet.
The loon’s torpedo-like body makes it look like Michael Phelps in the water; however, when it hits the land the loon looks more awkward then a waddling penguin. Throughout evolution, the loon developed its feet very far back on its body. Their feet act like oars which help them swim but make walking very difficult. In fact, while working for the Ministry of Natural Resources I had to deal with several calls about loons being stranded on the side of the highway. A lot of times, after it rains the highway has a shimmer to it that flying loons mistake for water. Once they land on the road they will be in trouble unless they can find a larger water body nearby. Generally, the only time loons will be on land is to lay their eggs. Even during that time they ensure their nests are in the grass close to the lake. Remember, if you see a loon hitch-hiking on the side of the road away from any water body, they might be in trouble. Perhaps it would be a good idea to call your local government or animal control to help out the loon and return it to the lake where it can be graceful once again.
Loon Fast Fact – Loons need a waterbody at least 10 acres in size in order to take off. The loon’s bones are solid which makes them very heavy so they need a long runway. You may have seen a loon running along the water to try and take flight.
I can’t say as I have ever seen a loon anywhere but on the water. It is good to know that if they are on the side of a roadway away from a body of water that they might be in trouble – your just full of great information!!
I am glad that I am able to teach people new things. One of my goals is education so it is nice hearing that I am achieving my goal. Thank you for the comment and the continued support. I really do appreciate it Aunt Linda!
I knew about the position of the loon’s feet but I did not realize they need 10 acres to take off (quite interesting).
Is it true loons communicate among each other by various calls?
Thanks and you’re doing a great job!
Questions about the cool loon calls eh? Well, they seem to be like most animals. They do have different calls that mean different things. They will generally be making noise during mating season but will also sing when predators may be nearby or if something is in their area. Thanks for the comment!!
This is very interesting! I didn’t know that loons need so much to take off. Nor did I know about their feet!
You have a very nice blog! Keep it up ^_^
Thanks TJ! I appreciate the very nice comment. I hope you are able to come back often. There will be a new fact every week day!
I’m having computer problems so hopefully you will get this. I just checked out your black bear story and your loon – two in one today, for me anyway. Didn’t know that about the loon’s feet or the weight of their body. I’ve never seen one out of water – interesting!
I will have to check it out next time I’m close enough to one to get a look.
Thanks Nathan.