Field season is officially underway for the Ricketts Conservation Loon Crew, and we’re excited to be back in Yellowstone National Park! So far, we’ve confirmed six active nests—an encouraging start to the season.
The loons in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem represent the southernmost breeding population of Common Loons in the world. It’s a small but mighty group, and their conservation is crucial. Because this population is so limited, protecting nesting sites from disturbance is one of our top priorities. Loons are incredibly sensitive to human activity during nesting season and are vulnerable to nest failure if approached too closely.
To help keep them safe, our team has established protective closures around known nesting areas. If you’re visiting the park this summer and see signage near lakeshores, it’s likely part of our efforts to give loons the space they need to raise the next generation.
During the early weeks of the field season, our crew conducts occupancy surveys. This means we’re out visiting historically occupied lakes to check for returning pairs, signs of nesting activity, or potential new territories.
Stay tuned for more updates from the field and if you’re in Yellowstone, keep your eyes (and ears) out for these iconic northern divers. Just remember to give them plenty of space to do their thing.