LOON PRESERVATION COMMITTEE NEWSLETTER SUMMER 2018

Photo Courtesy of Kittie Wilson DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE A Remembrance of Kittie

oons and the Loon Preservation Committee lost a tremen- dous advocate and friend with the passing of Kittie Wil- The Loon Preservation Committee L 183 Lee’s Mill Road, P.O. Box 604 son, The Loon Lady of Pleasant Lake, this past May. Kittie Moultonborough, NH 03254 first came to our attention at LPC about 15 years ago, when 603-476-LOON (5666); www.loon.org the loons on Pleasant Lake in New London nested for the first time since 1979. We were thrilled, as always, to welcome a The Loon Preservation Committee (LPC) is a new observer and new volunteer to help us help loons – but non-profit, self-directed and self-funded organiza- tion affiliated with New Hampshire Audubon. we had no idea at that time how important Kittie would be- Autonomous in membership and fundraising, LPC come to loons and to all of us at LPC. works to preserve loons and their habitats in New Hampshire through monitoring, research, manage- Kittie loved her loons, and she had a special relationship ment, and education. with them. She was enthralled with their attentiveness to their eggs, their teamwork caring for and feeding their chicks, LPC Staff: Harry S. Vogel and their devotion to each other. She began to document Senior Biologist/Executive Director their lives in pictures, and began to share those photos with Susie E. Burbidge friends and neighbors around the lake, an effort that grew Outreach/Volunteer Coordinator into her weekly “All Things Pleasant on The Lake” emails. John H. Cooley, Jr. Those pictures of her beloved loons and other aspects of na- Senior Biologist Kellee A. Duckworth ture grew into a phenomenon that introduced people around Center Manager the state and the world to loons and other natural wonders. Tiffany J. Grade Squam Lake Project Biologist But Kittie was not one to just observe the beauty of nature. Holly M. Heath She travelled around the state giving presentations about Membership/Center Assistant loons, and donated the proceeds to LPC to further our work Caroline M. Hughes Field Program Coordinator to protect them. She created books and calendars with her Linda Egli Johnson photos and always included a conservation message and Special Assistant/Newsletter Coordinator encouraged people to support LPC. After losing a loon on Lin L. O’Bara Pleasant Lake to lead fishing tackle, Kittie and husband John Development Coordinator (both LPC Spirit of the Loon Award recipients, in 2009 and Joan M. Plevich Database Technician 2012 respectively) worked with fierce determination to pass Bette J. Ruyffelaert legislation restricting the sale and use of lead tackle. And the Center Assistant day that legislation was implemented, she and John came to The Loon Center, with a cake, to help us celebrate a great day LPC Board of Trustees: Brian J. Reilly, Chair for loons. Elizabeth P. Gabel, Vice Chair Glyn P. Green, Treasurer We made full use of Kittie’s passion and talents at LPC. Kristen F. Begor, Secretary Her beautiful portraits of her loons grace every one of our Austin (Chip) Broadhurst Jr. newsletters and reports since 2009. She is and always will Thomas S. Deans be a Presence at The Loon Center, and the world is a better Sandra L. Helve Beverly LaFoley place, for people and for loons, because of her passion and Arthur (Sandy) P. McGinnes generosity. We at LPC, and I hope all of you, will continue Annie Montgomery to draw strength and inspiration from Kittie’s pictures – her Jordan S. Prouty (Honorary) love of loons and nature shines through them – and be re- Robert I. Rotberg minded of the joys of a life lived close to nature. Ex-officio Trustees: Douglas A. Bechtel, NH Audubon President Harry S. Vogel, LPC Senior Biologist/Executive Director

- 2 - LPC AFIELD

LPC Partners with University of New Hampshire and Biodiversity Research Institute to Study Cyanobacterial Toxins hat do fruit bats in Guam, in New Hampshire, cyanobacte- All cyanotoxins are not alike. Wcoots in Georgia, and fish rial algal blooms in freshwater One broad class, microcystins, in New Hampshire all have in lakes are now the subject of have long been known as a health common? They have all been intense study as a source of toxins hazard to humans and animals, found to accumulate—or biocon- that can move through the aquatic including livestock and pets. Dr. centrate—neurotoxins produced food web, building up in fish, James Haney, a limnologist at the by cyanobacteria, formerly known and posing a potential risk to University of New Hampshire’s as blue-green algae. These cyano- long-lived apex predators who (UNH’s) Center for Freshwa- toxins can be deadly. On Guam consume fish, including loons ter Biology, has been studying they have been blamed for a and humans. In all three sys- microcystins for several decades. devastating disease akin to ALS tems—Guam, Georgia, and New Recently his research focus has (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Hampshire—the accumulation of broadened to include the cyano- Lou Gherig’s Disease) affecting cyanotoxins in the food web may toxin BMAA (Beta-Methylamino- the Chamorro people, whose diet put species at the top of the web L-alanine). BMAA is the com- includes fruit bats. In Georgia at risk. LPC’s work this summer pound that accumulates in fruit and other southeastern States, will help measure cyanotoxins in bats in Guam. It caught the atten- cyanotoxins have been linked to New Hampshire lakes and iden- tion of researches in New Hamp- die-offs in American coots (Fulica tify mechanisms that could make shire, including Dr. Haney, when americana) and the bald eagles that them harmful to wildlife using they realized that BMAA derived prey or scavenge them. Here loons as an indicator species. continued on page 4

Remembering Kittie...

Linda Egli Johnson, Newsletter Editor:

ittie Wilson was a kind, generous, and dear friend to Kall of us at LPC, but especially to New Hampshire’s loons. She devoted her summers to protecting loons in any way she could. A retired school teacher, she trav- eled the state with her husband, John, giving presenta- tions on loons and donating her speaking fees to LPC. In addition to her great skills as an educator, Kittie was an exceptional photographer. She photographed her loon family on Pleasant Lake in great detail, always with high powered lenses from a safe and respectful distance. And she shared her photography selflessly for the ben- efit of loon preservation. As the Editor of the LPC Newsletter, I have been immensely blessed to have Kittie’s large archive of loon photography at my disposal. Her images tell a story that words cannot always capture. They offer enjoyment and a heightened awareness to the reader. And they set our publication apart with their professional quality and unique compositions.

It was just last fall that Kittie and I collaborated on a new column for the LPC Newsletter, “Looking at Loons—A Telephoto Look at the Natural History of New Hampshire’s Loons” (see page 21). This column captured the subtle nuances of loon behavior that many of us would otherwise miss. Prior to her passing she submitted what would be her last article and accompanying photographs for this Summer 2018 issue. But she left us a treasure trove of loon images captured with her indomitable spirit for loon behavior and preservation. We will honor her legacy by continuing to share her images through the LPC Newsletter, e-news, website, and our educational outreach efforts throughout the state. We are forever grateful to Kittie for leaving her mark in such a positive and inspiring way!

- 3 - continued from page 3 from cyanobacterial blooms might help explain an unusual cluster of human ALS cases around Masco- ma Lake in Enfield. Environmen- tal sampling to measure BMAA levels at the bottom of the food ŶŐͬŐ͕ĚƌLJǁĞŝŐŚƚͿ chain, in the plankton, and in the ; predators higher up, like fish, has ůŽŽĚ also included loon blood, feather, and egg samples. Indeed, recent results based in part on LPC’s samples has confirmed the idea that BMAA may be accumulating, DŝŶ>ŽŽŶ or bioconcentrating, in lake preda- tors like loons (see Figure 1). ZĂƚŝŽŽĨDŝŶŽŽƉůĂŶŬƚŽŶƚŽWŚLJƚŽƉůĂŶŬƚŽŶ

But accumulating in the upper &ŝŐƵƌĞϭ͗>ŽŽŶďůŽŽĚDĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƚŝŽŶƐ;ǀĞƌƚŝĐĂůĂdžŝƐͿĚĞƉĞŶĚŽŶƚŚĞĂĐĐƵŵƵůĂƚŝŽŶŽĨDŝŶƚŚĞĨŽŽĚǁĞď͘ echelons of the food web may not dŚĞŚŽƌŝnjŽŶƚĂůĂdžŝƐŝŶĚŝĐĂƚĞƐƚŚĞƌĂƚĞŽĨDďŝŽŵĂŐŶŝĨŝĐĂƚŝŽŶ;ŽƌĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƚŝŽŶͿĂƐnjŽŽƉůĂŶŬƚŽŶĐŽŶƐƵŵĞ ƉŚLJƚŽƉůĂŶŬƚŽŶ͕ĂƚƚŚĞďĂƐĞŽĨƚŚĞĂƋƵĂƚŝĐĨŽŽĚǁĞď͘'ƌĞĂƚĞƌďŝŽŵĂŐŶŝĨŝĐĂƚŝŽŶŝƐĐŽƌƌĞůĂƚĞĚǁŝƚŚŚŝŐŚĞƌůŽŽŶ be the only way to the figurative ďůŽŽĚůĞǀĞůƐ͘ĂƚĂĂŶĚĐŚĂƌƚĂĚĂƉƚĞĚĂŶĚƌĞƉƌŝŶƚĞĚďLJƉĞƌŵŝƐƐŝŽŶŽĨƌ͘:ĂŵĞƐ,ĂŶĞLJ͕hE,͕ĂŶĚƌ͘DŝĐŚĞůůĞ top for cyanotoxins. Recent work <ŶĞĞůĂŶĚ͕ŝŽĚŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJZĞƐĞĂƌĐŚ/ŶƐƚŝƚƵƚĞ͘ at Dr. Haney’s lab has highlighted a different route. To bypass the long trip up the food chain, a cya- breathing at or near the surface of to cyanotoxins. Species like loons notoxin like BMAA need only be the lake. At the surface of a wind- that eat fishand breath only a lofted from the water column into swept or sun-baked lake, this few inches above the lake surface the air to become immediately aerosolization happens continu- would be exposed through both available to humans, loons, and ously, and may account for a sub- pathways. other organisms living and stantial part of the total exposure ~John H. Cooley Photo Courtesy of Lorraine Virge

n mid-May, North Country photographer Lorraine Virge discovered this Common Loon stuck in a small reten- Ition pond behind commercial buildings in Littleton, NH, without enough water to take flight. After several days, the loon headed over land across the parking lot between TJ Maxx and McDonald’s. Virge and local law enforcement intercepted it just before it reached busy Route 3. Veterinary staff at Meadow Pond Animal Hospital in Moultonbor- ough provided first aid and found no major injuries, and LPC staff released it the same day on Echo Lake in Franconia Notch, near the rescue site. Inclement weather the week before the rescue, which produced noted fall out of migrating waterbirds on large lakes throughout western NH, may have brought this loon to an unexpected landing. - 4 - Understanding and Managing for Climate Change in New Hampshire Photo Courtesy of John Rockwood ce-out on Winnipesaukee this Ispring came on April 26, a few days later than average, marking a welcome end to what felt like a long winter. A cold, late spring had kept the ice intact, making this a pretty ordinary year in the 132 years of local record keeping. But as our summer newsletter goes to press, the weather pat- terns seem to have returned to the new normal. The month of May featured only a third as much rain as usual, and temperatures were five degrees Fahrenheit above average. When we look past the varying weather, though, the long-term trends are clear. New Hampshire’s climate is warming An adult loon vigorously pants on the nest in an attempt to cool itself. Loons and changing, and that change is will also leave the nest to drink and cool off in the water, leaving eggs vulner- impacting wildlife, from moose to able to predators. river herring to loons. Nesting at the water’s edge, data—the site location, nest initia- better understand this relation- loons are vulnerable to weather tion and completion dates, and ship. events that can flood or strand other monitoring data painstak- LPC is also investigating how their nests. Near the southern ingly compiled since the 1970s by to protect loons in the future, as limit of the species breeding numerous field crews and volun- the climate changes. A proac- range, the loon population that teers—with daily weather data tive part of our nest observations we monitor and manage in New from local weather stations, using this summer will be LPC Staff Hampshire may also be pushing over 100 stations throughout New Biologist Caroline Hughes’ thesis the climate envelope, assuming Hampshire to cover the 4,000+ investigation of raft cover materi- loons have evolved climate-driven loon nest attempts with precisely als. Will a shaded, cooler raft be adaptations better suited for known dates. This, we hope, a haven for loons on a hot day, breeding further north. Fortu- gives us the clearest possible pic- making a nest in southern New nately, our close monitoring, over ture of the relationship between Hampshire feel a little more like decades of variable weather, can weather and nesting success. one in central Canada, or a nest give us insight into how loons fare The results of this analysis con- in the future a little more like during a warmer or cooler sum- firm that precipitation—especially one from a past, cooler climate? mer, or in dry or wet years. And the flood events that can cause Perhaps modest alterations to the this can help us anticipate, adapt, widespread nest failure—and nesting habitat, such as a little and plan. high temperatures are both nega- more shade, can buy our loons Our investigation of the ef- tively associated with loon nest- many decades more of comfort- fects of these challenges on loons ing success. Rainier or warmer able nesting conditions, as the has focused on the influence of weather during a nest attempt climate warms. To investigate, weather—precipitation, tem- makes the nest significantly less Caroline’s Master’s thesis is com- perature, and humidity—on loon likely to succeed. As we refine paring simulated egg tempera- nesting success. This has been these results, we are also focused tures under rafts with additional complicated by the many other this summer on nest observations shade at three experimental sites factors that also influence nesting. that pinpoint the direct effects of in southern, central, and north- To highlight the role of weather, weather and temperature on loon ern New Hampshire. She is we have matched loon nesting behavior and egg viability, to continued on page 6

- 5 - continued from page 5 also testing shade fabric on a few active nest rafts on Winnipesau- kee and Squam, to measure the temperature differences and loon Eggs left unattended, while incubat- behaviors on these different rafts. ing parents seek relief in the water In addition to nest raft design, from hot temperatures, are not only Caroline’s results may point to susceptible to predators but are at important differences in natural risk of overheating without the shade shade conditions at loon nest sites provided by the parents. around the state.

~John H. Cooley Photo Courtesy of John Rockwood

Master’s Thesis Explores Raft Cover Materials and Nest Temperatures

iven that the effects of climate among our experimental raft mining whether the experimental Gchange are already being felt model, our current raft model, a raft covers provide a biologically by many species, particularly by nest raft with no cover, and shore- significant temperature reduction those at the southernmost extent line (natural) nest sites. At each for nesting loons. To determine of their breeding ranges, LPC is site, we are measuring both the this, we are equipping multiple gearing up to address the chal- ambient temperature and the tem- nest rafts (with and without the lenges that incubating loons are perature of mock eggs. Through UV-blocking fabric) that we ex- likely to face in New Hampshire this study, we hope to be able to pect will be used this season with as summers grow progressively determine whether the ambient a temperature sensor and with warmer. Last summer, Staff Bi- and mock egg temperatures on a game camera. Through this ologist and Field Program Coordi- the experimental raft model are portion of the study, we hope to nator Caroline Hughes conducted significantly lower than on the measure both temperature dif- a pilot study to determine wheth- current model rafts. We also hope ferences and differences in loon er our nest raft covers could be to discover whether rafts in gen- behavior (especially the expres- modified with UV-blocking cov- eral (and the experimental rafts sion of thermoregulatory behav- ers to provide shade, thus reduc- specifically) differ significantly iors, such as panting) between raft ing heat stress on nesting loons. from natural nest sites in terms of models. The results of this study As the limited results of this pilot nest temperatures. should help us to improve the project were promising, Caroline In addition to comparing tem- design of our rafts in order to bet- is expanding upon that study this peratures among the raft types, ter aid New Hampshire’s loons as summer for her Master’s Thesis. we are also interested in deter- climate change progresses. The current study seeks to compare temperatures across multiple types of nests, with special emphasis on temperature differences between our current model raft, which has a cover con- sisting of one layer of camouflage netting stretched over an arch of lobster trap mesh, and our experi- mental model raft, which has a cover that incorporates a layer of UV-blocking shade fabric in addi- tion to the camouflage netting and mesh. On lakes throughout New Hampshire, we have set up study An experimental raft setup on Lake Massabesic will compare temperatures sites that compare temperatures among raft types and materials.

- 6 - LPC Launches New Lead Tackle Buy Back Program to Combat Continuing Loon Lead Deaths

uring a meeting this winter Photo Courtesy of Bion Pike Dof the Loons & Lead Working Group at New Hampshire Fish & Game Headquarters in Con- cord, a radical idea was thrown on the table. “How about a lead tackle buy-back program?” Or as LPC’s Harry Vogel likes to say, “Lead is still a serious problem for our loons. Let’s give anglers some cold hard cash for their lead tackle!” The idea was discussed for a while longer, pros and cons presented, and a decision was made to try a pilot program dur- ing the summer of 2018. The Loon Preservation Com- mittee (LPC), New Hampshire This loon was picked up by Harbormaster Bion Pike's boat at Manchester- Fish & Game Department by-the-Sea in Massachusetts at the end of November. Bion called LPC, and (NHF&G), and two local tackle The Animal Rescue League of Boston, whose staff was able to get it to Tufts shops have teamed up to offer a Veterinary Clinic. Although lead tackle ingestion is only rarely documented lead tackle buy back between June on saltwater, this loon had ingested a lead-headed jig, tested very high for lead, 2 and September 3 (Labor Day). and unfortunately died overnight. The lead levels in this loon's blood were Anglers can exchange one ounce more than 10 times as high as the upper limit of our test machine at LPC. or more of banned tackle for a $10 gift certificate to either AJ’s Tackle the state. They were a power- affordable. It is our hope that the in Meredith or The Tackle Shack ful reminder that it is one thing continued outreach will remind in Newbury, the two participating to have a law on the books, and anglers that they should not wait shops this year. another to have people aware of any longer to do the right thing This pilot program could not and follow that law. This new for loons. Not to mention fishing come at a better time, as we are initiative is an attempt to offer an with lead sinkers or jigs weigh- on the heels of the highest num- incentive to clean out Grandpa’s ing one ounce or less is against ber of adult loon deaths from old tackle box in the dusty corner the law in New Hampshire now! ingested lead fishing tackle in the of the garage and replace its lead Collection receptacles for old lead last 5 years. Eight loons were con- tackle with new, loon-safe, non- tackle can be found at all NHF&G firmed dead after ingesting lead toxic tackle. offices, at The Loon Center in sinkers and jigs in 2017. This was In addition to the buy-back Moultonborough, at the NH despite the new law that went program, LPC and NHF&G will Lakes Association office in Con- into effect in New Hampshire on continue to educate anglers about cord, and several transfer stations June 1, 2016, banning the sale and the effects of lead poisoning on around the state as well. freshwater use of lead sinkers and loons. Both organizations are part We will be excited to share jigs weighing one ounce or less, of a region-wide initiative called results from the 2018 pilot pro- regardless of length or attach- Fish Lead Free (www.fishleadfree. gram in our Fall Newsletter, and ments. These loons were discov- org) which is dedicated to provid- we are hopeful we can expand the ered on lakes or ponds in Alton, ing resources for anglers across program next year if more tackle Auburn, Danbury, Franklin, New England to help them make shops are willing to participate. Moultonborough, Pittsburg and the switch to lead-free tackle. Sunapee, which demonstrates the There are many safe alternatives ~Susie Burbidge impact this issue is having across to lead that are easy to find and

- 7 - Lead Tackle Continues to be a Major Problem for NH’s Loons in 2017

hen all was said and done, juvenile mortalities were attribut- nally banded in 1999) and the WLPC’s ongoing investigation ed to trauma (usually from attacks third was at least 15 (originally of loon mortality produced a dis- by other loons) but in one notable banded in 2005). For one, band- appointing but very clear result in case on Conway Lake, from a bald ed in 1999 on Walker Pond in 2017: lead tackle ingestion con- eagle. Boscawen, lead poisoning ended tinues to be a major problem for The 2017 mortality collections a successful recent breeding effort New Hampshire’s loons. Forty represented over a third of the on Tower Hill Pond in Auburn. percent of documented mortali- mortalities expected in the adult At 25 miles from Walker Pond, his ties, or eight adult loons, died of loon population for the entire establishment at Tower Hill Pond lead poisoning. In 2017, another year, given a background mortali- marked a record dispersal dis- two loon mortalities involved ty rate of 8% and an adult popula- tance, across the Merrimack River fishing line entanglement, mean- tion estimated at about 700 loons. Valley, for an adult male loon. ing that at least half of the docu- This is a remarkably high rate of mented adult loon mortalities collected and examined carcasses, ~John H. Cooley were preventable. Other causes for a free-ranging wildlife popu- of adult mortality included infec- lation, and speaks to the strong tion (2), trauma (3), and injury public interest and cooperation in from other loons (1). The cause of reporting dead loons. We were death could not be determined in surprised to find that in 2017 over five cases. In addition to adult a third of the adult mortality cases, three immature loons (1- cases were banded loons, includ- 2-year olds) were collected, and ing three of the lead mortalities. seven juveniles or chicks (less Two of these lead poisoned loons than one year old). Most of the were at least 21 years old (origi-

LPC Hosts Tufts Veterinary Students – Olivia Bolus & Kim Freid

his summer, LPC will again host two Tufts University veteri- Tnary interns. Olivia Bolus (pictured left) is a rising second year veterinary student with a background in environmental science and marine mammal biology. Her previous experi- ence includes work with Allied Whale, where she helped to manage the North Atlantic Humpback Whale catalog, re- sponded to marine mammal strandings, and participated in necropsies. This summer, Olivia will focus on testing a new device to aid in the detection of aspergillosis (an opportunis- tic fungal disease) in loons. While this device has been used for humans, it has never before been used on wildlife. Our second intern, Kim Freid (pictured right), is a rising third year veterinary student. During her previous experience as a vet- erinary assistant, Kim developed an interest in toxins that af- fect wildlife after seeing mass seabird mortality as a result of red tide poisoning. This summer, Kim will be working closely with both LPC and the University of New Hampshire Cen- ter for Freshwater Biology to investigate the potential health consequences to loons from exposure to the toxins produced by harmful algal blooms. We are glad for the continued oppor- tunity to collaborate with Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine and look forward to having both Kim and Olivia join our team this summer.

- 8 - 2018 LPC SUMMER FIELD STAFF LAKES REGION SEACOAST Henry is enrolled at Tufts Owen is enrolled at the Uni- University with a dual major versity of New Hampshire in Biology and Environmen- majoring in Wildlife Con- tal Science. He founded the servation Biology. He served Tufts Ornithological Soci- as a research assistant on ety, a student organization a New England Cottontail promoting ornithology and monitoring and conserva- avian biodiversity education tion project, overseeing and awareness. data collection and integrity.

HENRY STEVENS OWEN BRENNICK

MONADNOCK SUNAPEE Hillary earned a B.S. in Sarah returns for a second Geology /St. Lawrence Uni- summer monitoring the versity, and an M.S. in Envi- loons in New Hampshire’s ronmental Studies/Antioch Sunapee Region. She con- University New England. tinues her undergraduate She has dedicated much of studies in Wildlife Conser- her career to date studying vation Biology as a senior and banding birds through- at the University of New out the northeast. Hampshire. HILLARY SIENER SARAH CANTWELL

NORTH COUNTRY WINNIPESAUKEE Noah is a recent graduate Erin is enrolled at the Uni- of St. Lawrence University/ versity of Montana major- Biology. He spent two sum- ing in Wildlife Biology. She mers as a field technician volunteered for a Wolverine for the Institute for Bird Watch Station in northwest- Populations (IBP)―the first ern Montana, as well as for on willow flycatchers, and a habitat restoration project second on bumblebees―in in the Blackfoot-Clearwater the remote Sierra Nevadas. Game Range. NOAH BELIVEAU ERIN HALEY

SUMMER INTERN SUMMER INTERN Julian is an Organismal Bi- Matt is enrolled at Paul ology and Ecology major Smith College where he at Colorado College. Re- majors in Wildlife Biology. search experience includes He has gained valuable the Bronx Zoo, American experience surveying and Museum of Natural History, banding birds through his Cape Eleuthera Institute, course work and is eager to and Ecology Project Interna- futher expand his field skills tional in Costa Rica. helping LPC this summer.

JULIAN MOULTON MATT TOLMAN

The SQUAM LAKE territory is monitored by Tiffany Grade, LPC’s full-time Squam Lake Project Biologist.

- 9 - LPC Hosts 29th Annual Northeast Loon Study Working Group

n March 15th-16th, the Loon intensive OPreservation Committee days dedi- hosted the 29th Annual North- cated to east Loon Study Working Group safeguarding (NELSWG) meeting at The Loon and recover- Center. NELSWG provides a fo- ing loons. rum for researchers from through- An entire out the northeastern states, the section of the eastern Canadian provinces, and meeting was beyond to share new findings devoted to about the basic biology and life the continu- history of loons; discuss continu- ing challeng- ing and emerging threats to loon es posed to populations; and improve our loons by lead ability to address challenges fac- fishing tackle ing loons through management and ongoing and public education. Meeting as research and LPC Senior Biologist John Cooley discusses the potential a group allows researchers and education to effects of Climate Change on New Hampshire’s loons. state-wide organizations like the reduce mort- Loon Preservation Committee to alities from ingested lead tackle. examine LPC’s monitoring, re- place their findings into a larger LPC staff led discussions of search, management, and educa- regional context, and facilitates in- new techniques to rescue and tional activities. The peer review depth discussions about priorities rehabilitate sick or injured loons of the many initiatives reported for new research and new collabo- based on our experience and at NELSWG helps hone the work rations to benefit loons. recent successes, and considerable of LPC and other organizations time and discussion were devoted to assure a future for loons in the ELSWG provides a fo- to the threats of contaminants northeast. The Loon Preservation Nrum for researchers from revealed by LPC’s Squam Lake Committee and the Northeast throughout the northeastern Loon Initiative (see page 16) and Loon Study Working Group will the continued progress of LPC’s continue to expand relationships states, the eastern Canadian Loon Recovery Plan. The latter among researchers and wildlife provinces, and beyond to share topic included initial results of managers that are working to new findings about the basic LPC’s comprehensive analysis of recover viable region-wide popu- biology and life history of loons; effects of temperature and rainfall lations of loons and other wild- discuss continuing and emerg- on loon nesting success and an life. In so doing, NELSWG helps ing threats to loon populations; introduction to our pilot study on ensure that LPC’s work continues and improve our ability to management techniques to miti- to benefit loons and other wildlife gate these challenges. in the northeast and beyond. address challenges facing loons NELSWG provides an impor- through management and public tant venue to share and critically ~Harry Vogel education.

An impressive list of close to 50 representatives of 19 not-for-profit he dramatic increases in LPC’s monitoring, research, organizations, industries, and Tmanagement, and education to recover loons have been government agencies attended the funded by donations to LPC’s Loon Recovery Plan. For gathering. The subjects covered at the meeting were nearly as more information about the Loon Recovery Plan, or to diverse as the participants, with a make a donation, please contact Harry Vogel, Senior Biolo- total of 29 presentations and dis- gist/Executive Director at 603-476-5666 or [email protected]. cussion topics addressed over two

- 10 - Thank you to our donors: April 1, 2017 - March 31, 2018 ($100 and above)

he Board of Trustees and staff of the Loon Preservation Committee thank all our supporters for their passion and commitment to our Tmission. Every dollar and donation of goods and/or services makes a difference in our work to preserve loons and their habitats in New Hampshire. We regret that space limits this listing to monetary donations of $100 or more. Although we make every effort to be accurate, we would appreciate any notice of errors or oversights.

$10,000 and above Megan Burke Kidder $500 to $999 Jeff Good Landscaping Anonymous (3) David and Barbara Calhoun Anonymous (4) Jewish Federation of Cleveland Mrs. Marjorie B. Buckley Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Conover Mr. Keld Agnar Mr. and Mrs. Louis Kahn Fidelity Charitable Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Coolidge Mr. and Mrs. Norman Ahn Corrie Kinnicutt Knopf Family Foundation Bob and Leslie Dahl Ms. Priscilla T. Alvord Katherine Kinnicutt Family Fndn. Lovett-Woodsum Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Robert D’Alelio Johanna Arbelaez Perez Dr. Ron Katz Maple Hill Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Thomas S. Deans Bank of America Charitable Fndn. Mr. and Mrs. John Kieley Ella Warren Miller Guy and Kittle De Chazal Bill Bassett Mr. and Mrs. Carl W. Leaman New England Farm & Garden Bob and Liz Gabel John Bennett, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Dick Leaman New Hampshire Charitable Fndn. Hon. and Mrs. Arthur Gajarsa Benevity Community Impact Fund Mr. and Mrs. William Ledingham Preston Family Fund Bryan Granger Mr. and Mrs. Mark Billings Lemon Grass Restaurant Squam Envir. Preservation Fund Chris and Martha Grant Ms. Carolyn Bitetti Martha B. Lowery Larry and Pam Tarica Roy and Leslee Halleran Dr. Joan Boomsma Mr. Roman Lubynsky Vanguard Charitable Mr. and Mrs. Roger Hamblin Mr. and Mrs. Bud Booth Mr. and Mrs. Bud Lynch Bill and Nan Hamilton Vicky Boreyko Mr. and Mrs. David Lynch $5,000 to $9,999 Hampshire Hospitality Holdings Rick and Karen Bowe Sue Mackie Anonymous (2) Richard and Rebecca Hawkins Stephen Bradley Richard and Margaret Margolis Mrs. Widge W. Arms Mr. and Mrs. David Hess Winthrop and Sarah Brown Mr. and Mrs. David F. Martin Ron and Nan Baker Hilltop Foundation Lalor and Patricia Burdick Mr. and Mrs. Neal McKnight The Beach Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Roger Jean Chase and Wendy Carey Andy McLane Mark and Kristen Begor Roger and Tracy Jeanty Mr. and Mrs. Bob Cassato Mr. and Mrs. Mark McNabb Sally Searles Ferbert James Kallfelz Mr. Mark Chaffee Merrymeeting Lake Association Peter and Susan Goodwin Kevin Keenan Jane Choate Heather S. Miller Donald and Karen Grade Mr. and Mrs. Carl P. Lehner Mr. and Mrs. Jim Clemens Anne Montgomery Tom and Liz Kelsey Doug and Kate Lyon John and Carla Codispoti Morgan Stanley Sandy and Louise McGinnes Mr. and Mrs. Robert MacArthur Jacquie and Ken Colburn Moulton Farm Murdough Foundation Rob and Donna Manning Ms. Nancy Collins Nelson Law Offices Eric and Marlene Taussig Mr. and Mrs. Jim Martin Bill Crangle and Lee Webster Jay and Lynne Newton Dr. and Mrs. John Wilson Mrs. Helen F. Mathieson Mr. and Mrs. Fred Dargie Mr. and Mrs. Andy Noel Mr. and Mrs. W. H. McBee III Charles J. De Sieyes Mr. and Mrs. James Nyce $2,500 to $4,999 Meredith Village Savings Bank Deborah Dearborn Mr. and Mrs. Carl L. Nydegger Anonymous (2) James and Ann Orr Your Cause, LLC Dell Giving Joseph and Molly Nye American Endowment Foundation Overhead Door Options Michael A. Di Flora Mr. Jeffrey B. Parker Mrs. Ellen Wood Barth Overhills Foundation E.M. Heath, Inc. Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Mr. and Mrs. Austin Broadhurst Douglas Payne MD Ms. Lenora M. Egli Pine River Pond Association In Memory of Alan D. Cobb, The Pinkard Group Kate Esbenshade & Michael Miele The Pinkard Group from his son Russell F. Cobb Mr. and Mrs. David Preston Harlow Farmer & Nini Lian Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Poitras GE Foundation Jim and Dianne Prevo John and Barbara Fibiger Mrs. Suzanne Pratt Mr. and Mrs. Glyn P. Green Regeneron Matching Gifts Dr. Daniel Finn Linda Price Jay R. Monroe Memorial Fndn. Mr. Joseph Reilly E. Ripley Forbes Mr. Jordan S. Prouty Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lietz Jane Rice Frank Marinace Architect Pumpernickel Press Annie Montgomery Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ridgely Frog Rock Tavern Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Richards Nuttall Ornithological Club Mr. Peter Riemer Mr. and Mrs. Allan W. Fulkerson Dr. Beverly S. Ridgely Dr. and Mrs. Brian J. Reilly Robert E. McConnell Fndn. Mr. Marc Gallagher Saltmarsh Insurance Agency Schwab Charitable Rockywold-Deephaven Camps Mr. and Mrs. Tom K. Garesche Samuel and Gail Murdough Squam Boat Livery Dr. Robert I. Rotberg Mr. James F. Goulet Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. James M. Stone Pito and Chris Salas Joel Grade Mr. and Mrs. Mark Schifrin Unger Family Fund Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Smith Mr. and Mrs. Donald C. Graham Bruce and Sarah Schwaegler Mr. and Mrs. M. A. Weatherbie Ambassador and Mrs. Paul Speltz Great East Lake Improvement Mr. Peter Segal Mr. and Mrs. Stephen F. Wiggins Mr. and Mrs. Philip H. Steckler Association Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Shaw Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Beach Mr. and Mrs. Michael Stolper Greater Washington Community Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sheehan Michael and Elizabeth Bierer E. Clinton Swift Foundation William and Pam Simonds Town of Moultonborough Dr. and Mrs. Paul Guyre Janet Smith $1,000.00 to $2,499 Town of Sandwich Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hawkins Martha Soucy Anonymous (8) Trinity Episcopal Church Barbara Hendricks Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Spinazzola Gilbert and Pamela Binninger Vail Family Fund Mr. and Mrs. William Hofmann III Mr. and Mrs. Ed Stephenson PJ Blankenhorn & Tony Wagner Harry S. Vogel Mr. and Mrs. William Hohenberger Mr. and Mrs. Glenn P. Strehle James B. Broadhurst MD Mr. William Weiler Mr. and Mrs. Phil Hunter Taylor Family Fund Carole Brophy Robert and Tona White Irving Energy Distribution & The New Woodshed Mrs. Vicky Brox Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Whitmore Marketing Mr. and Mrs. John Thompson Walter W. Buckley Jr. Ms. Carolyn E. Wood Irwin Corporation Mr. and Mrs. David S. Thorpe TIAA Charitable Stephen and Jane Frasca Mr. and Mrs. David Michael Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Watkinson Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Torr Ruth I. Freeman Laurence F. Miller Waukewan and Winona Mark and Pamela Trailsmith Mr. Steve Fusi Cole Mills Watershed Protective Association Mr. and Mrs. F. K. Von Gottberg Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Gates Mr. and Mrs. David Mitchell Fran West & Roberta Stack Mr. and Mrs. Alan Walts Barbara Gavin Mr. and Mrs. Charles Moizeau Sue Whaley Stephen Wells Mr. and Mrs. Cyrus F. Gibson Mr. and Mrs. John Mooradian Mr. and Mrs. Mark Whary Ms. Catherine Williams Giuseppe’s Pizzeria Donald Mordavsky Mr. and Mrs. Steve White Elizabeth Woodard Mr. Rudy Glocker William Morris & Evelyn Conroy Mr. and Mrs. Kent Willing Joyce L. Goerke Mr. and Mrs. David Morse Winnipesaukee Chocolates $250 to $499 Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Goodby Moultonboro Lions Club Kim Wisckol Anonymous (15) Goose Pond Lake Association Mark Musselman Peter and JoAnn Wood Ted Adriance Karen Gosciminski Mr. and Ms. James A. Neel Mr. and Mrs. Steve Wright Ms. Margi K. Alderfer John Graham Nubanusit Lake Associates YMCA Camp Huckins Alexandria Titans Volleyball Club Mrs. Joan C. Green Charles F. Obrecht Carol Zink Ms. Jane Alvord Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth G. Green Ms. Phoebe C. Olmsted David Andrews Mr. and Mrs. David Gregg III Gerry Oullette $100 to $249 Mr. James A. Babson Peter Gross & Diane Garfield Susan Parker Anonymous (43) Bank of America Charitable Gifts Barbara Groth Estelle Parsons & Peter Zimroth Mr. and Mrs. Mark Abelson Dr. and Mrs. Marc Bard Mr. and Mrs. Alan Halperin Partridge Lake Property Owners Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Ackert Mr. and Mrs. Robert Barr Mr. and Mrs. Robert Haring-Smith Tim Perry Abigail Adams Dorothy A. Bauer Mr. and Mrs. Elton E. Harris Mr. Sidney Peterman Jonathan D. Adams Mrs. Thomas P. Beal Jr. Mrs. Barbara Hartford Juliana Phillips Mr. and Mrs. Wayne H. Adams Bearcamp Pond Association Mr. and Mrs. Gerry Hayes Leslie Pires Mr. and Mrs. Peter Allen Kathy Berman Karel Hayes Pleasant Lake Protective Assoc. Richard and Nelleke Allen Gilbert Binninger Mr. and Mrs. George Hibbard Mr. Robert H. Potts Amazon Smile Foundation Rick and Robin Blank Mr. Scott Hoekman Mr. and Mrs. Peter G. Powers Mr. Bernard A. Anderson Mr. and Mrs. David Blohm Laurie Hoyt Michael and Susanne Prakken Mr. and Mrs. Colin F. Anderson Anne W. Borg Jeffrey Hugel Tricia Pratt Nancy Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Michael Borkowski Blake Ireland Jr. The Honorable Phil Preston Mr. Hugh T. Antrim Jonathan Bourne Mr. Bill R. Irwin Jamie Pringle Mr. Frank E. Argersinger Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Brienza Christine Jacobs Adam and Rachel Ramsey Ms. Judith M. Arms Eleanor Briggs Carl and Linda Egli Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Paul Remus Kevin Ash Isabel V Brintnall Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Johnson Donald N. Rice Betsy G. Atkinson Richard G. Brown Ms. Ingrid Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Rich Steve Avery Ryan Buchanan Gail Johnston Mr. and Mrs. John C. Robbins III Ms. Deborah Ayers Camp Deerwood, Inc. David Katz Mr. and Mrs. Robinette & Family Mr. Brian Babcock Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Casper Tim Keith Mr. and Mrs. Dan Robusto Kathryn Bacastow Curt and Joanne Chesley Jane Kellogg Roland Park Association Christine Bachrach YourCause, LLC Trusee for Nate Kelly James Salmon Dr. and Mrs. Robert L. Bahr Chevron Matching Gifts Jay and Janet Kenty Mr. David Sandmann Col. and Mrs. Broadus Bailey Jr. Carol Chicarello Mr. Ralph M. Kirshner Dr. Leo B. Sanfacon Mr. and Mrs. Bill Bardsley Nancy E. Christie Mr. and Mrs. Fred Knapp Mr. and Mrs. Brian Sanford Ben Bare Mr. and Mrs. Armand Circharo Mr. and Mrs. Richard Knox Everett and Sally Schenk Wendy Baring-Gould Chuck Clement Timothy Krebs Mr. Andrew C. Schirrmeister Catherine E. Barrett Cleveland Foundation Phil F. LaCasse Ms. Donna Schmalberger Mr. Mike J. Bartlett Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Comenzo Lucille Lacombe Pat Schmidt Ronley Bates Mrs. Peace Conant Beverly LaFoley Mary Anne Scott Todd Bates Pam Conover & Jon Adams Lake Winona Improvement Assoc. Ms. Susan Scrimshaw Mr. and Mrs. Bill Batsford Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Coolidge Robert and Maureen Lamb Mrs. Debra Sedgwick Penelope Beal Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Corcoran Mrs. Jean Lamont B. Fiske Shell Matching Gifts Program Tom Beal & Laura Nash Mr. Glenn L. Crilley Mr. and Mrs. Dave Larsen Ms. Joanne Shelton Mr. and Mrs. David L. Beardsley Crystal Lake Improvement Assoc. Mr.and Mrs. David S. Lee Silver Lake Association of Mr. and Mrs. Edmund I. Becker Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Richard J. De Seve Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lee Jr. Harrisville & Nelson Mr. Ned B. Beecher Mr. and Mrs. Robert Doretti Karen Levitt Beth Smith Wills Begor Deborah Downs Mr. and Mrs. Duff Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Dudley R. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Dan Bell Mr. John F. Dufrat Little Sunapee Protective Assoc. Michael Smith Deborah K. Benjamin Carl and Amy Du Rei Lovell Lake Association Martha Soucy Ms. Alice T. Bennet Eastman Community Association Mr. and Mrs. Robert P. Lowndes Mr. and Mrs. Robert Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Bennett Mr. and Mrs. John D. Evans Audrey T. MacLean Brenda Stowe Beth Benoit David Fagan Ken Mahl & Rachel Williams Mr. and Mrs. Mark Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. William Berkeley Mr. Douglas Fais Mr. and Mrs. Steven L. Marcus Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Sweetland Chris, Hans & Carol Bernau John Faunce Mrs. Winston Markey Dr. and Mrs. Andrew L. Taylor Berry Bay Association Mr. and Mrs. Merrill Fay Mr. and Mrs. David Marotta Mahra Teikmanis Mr. John Besser Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Feely Virginia C. Mars Ms. Therese Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Richard Beyer Mr. John P. Fernandes Millicent Mason Mr. and Mrs. Bryant F. Tolles Mr. and Mrs. John Bidwell Rev. Richard R. Fernandez Donald H. May Mr. and Mrs. William F. Trakat Big Island Pond Corp. Mr. Richard P. Fisk C. Joseph McCannon Ellen Vail Bijou Productions Jon Fliss Sally McGarry & Phyllis Veazey Timothy and Lucy Vaill Mr. and Mrs. Gordon H. Bingham Mr. Peter Formato Mr. and Mrs. Matthew T. McGinnes Deirdre Wachtel Rev. Nancy G. Bischoff Ms. Mavis H. Foster Mr. John S. McKinney Peter and Gail Walcott Mr. Kirk C. Bishop Jon Franklin Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. McNitt Lisa Wardlaw Peter Bixby & Frieda Yueh Matthew and Barbara Black Lawrence and Nancy Coolidge Kim Faulkner Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Hays Black Point Derby Side Association Mr. and Mrs. George D. Cooper Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fenollosa Jane Hearn William and Elaine Blaylock Mr. George C. Corson Jr. Ms. Marilyn Fitzgerald Mr. and Mrs. Paul Heaslip Blue Loon Botanicals Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth A. Costa Mr. and Mrs. Harvey J. Flanders Jonathan Hecht The Blue Shutter Gallery & Mrs. Page P. Coulter Ted Fodero Kathleen Hedberg Frame Shop Virginia Craig Mr. and Mrs. Pete Fogle Steven P Heinrich Ms. Marcia Blutstein Mr. and Mrs. James L. Crandall Lori Folts Barbara Helmstetter David Booth Mr. and Mrs. Hugh J. Crawford Ms. Teresa Forbes Mrs. Barbara H. Hendrick Vicky Boreyko Rev. and Mrs. James Crawford Forest Lake Association Mr. and Mrs. Tom Herwig Mr. and Mrs. Arthur J. Bouffard Bernie Criasia Mr. and Mrs. Edward Foster Mr. and Mrs. Colin High Mr. and Mrs. Roy E. Bouldry Lorraine Crocker Francestown Land Trust Highland Lake Protective Assoc. Karin and Jeff Bouvier Mr.and Mrs. Kent R. Cromwell Ms. Barbara J. Francisco Mr. and Mrs. David F. Hill Nicole Bouvier Mr. and Mrs. Court Cross Franklin Pierce Lake Association Mr. Douglas Hill Bow Lake Camp Owners Assoc. Cross Insurance Agency Frase Electric Dr. Lauren C. Hill D.V.M. Fred and Sue Bowden Tom Crouse Bette Frazier Mr. and Mrs. Gary Hirshberg Mr. and Mrs. David Boyce Denise Crowl Freedom Club of New Hampshire Mr. David Hitchcock Ellen Bradley Mr. Tom Cullen Kyle Freeman Mrs. Patricia P. Hitchcock Mrs. Helen J. Bradley Mrs. Sally S. Cutler Mark Freeman HMD Durante Corp. Mr. and Mrs. Jim Bradley DAK Financial Group Mr. Joseph Freitas Hoag Island Preservation Trust David Brady Mr. and Mrs. Henry Damon Elizabeth Frey Colette Hodes John Bratten Mr. and Mrs. George Davies Mr. and Mrs. Roger Frieden Mr. and Mrs. John E. Hoffmann Jr. Breakaway Athletic Coaching Laura Davis Friends of Big Island Pond Dr. and Mrs. Lewis B. Holmes Tom Brendal Mr. and Mrs. William M. Davis Friends of Libby Museum Dennis Holt Barbara Brennan Mr. John H Dawson Mr. and Mrs. Donald R. Frisch Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hopkins Bridgman’s Furniture, Inc. Deborah De Peyster Darlene M. Fritz Thomas Hopper Mr. Richard Brisbois Rose DeMars & Joseph Ingari Betsy Gagnon Horizon Foundation for NJ Ralph Bristol Robert Denious Julius Gamble Mr. and Mrs. Todd Horn Elizabeth Brookman Charles G. Depew Geoff Gannon Mr. Bruce Houghton Mr. and Mrs. Alfred R. Brown Harvey and Sharon Dewees Whitney Gay Howard Precision Inc. Bruce Brown Family Wendy DeWeirdt Mr. and Mrs. Richard Gerken Mr. Thomas A. Howe Sheridan T. Brown Mr. George Dewolf Gilford Islands Association Judith Hudson Mr. and Mrs. David Buffum Diamond Pond Association Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Gluck Lisa Hull Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Burchard David Dickinson Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Goddard Ms. Bonnie M. Hunt Kristina Burgard Ms. Jean Diehl Mr. and Mrs. Walter Goddard Mr. and Mrs. Derek Hunt Karen Burnett-Kune Mark Diette Brenda Godin Revs. Marshall and Victoria Hunt Katy Burns Mr. and Mrs. Neal Dini Mr. Steve Goldsmith Carolyn Hunter Stephen Burtchell Alan DiStasio David and Jean Gottesman Mr. John Hurd Trent Busch Dog Cove Corporation Mr. and Mrs. Kingdon Gould Ippolito’s Furniture Ms. Catherine Bushueff Evelyn Dolan Grace Wellness Center, LLC The Irwin Automotive Group Dr. and Mrs. Peter D. Byeff Alan Donaldson Tiffany Grade Mr. and Mrs. Philip Ives Betsy Washburn Cabot Mr. Thomas Dore Mr. John S. Graham J W Electric Timothy Callahan Mr. and Mrs. Scott C. Dow Granite Lake Association Mr. and Mrs. Daniel L. Jackson Camp Tecumseh William Draper Mrs. Winslow Green Edwin Jackson Canaan Lake Association Kathryn Drew Mr. and Mrs. David B. Greenwood Mr. and Mrs. James A. Jacobsen Jon Cannon Karen Duggan Mr. and Mrs. Chilton B. Greer Teresa Jacobson Canobie Lake Protective Assoc. Duke of Omnium Fund Mr. and Mrs. William G. Griffin Mr. and Mrs. Harold W. Janeway Mr. and Mrs. Alan Cantor Voorhees Dunn Kenneth Grinnell Mr. and Ms. Bruce Jenket Keith J. Capulli Dana R. Duxbury-Fox Mr. Tom Gross Mr. and Mrs. Charles D. Johnson Jane Carlson Mr. David Eastman Ms. Barbara Grossman Christopher Johnson Sandra Carlson Janice Eaton Nancy L. Grossman Virginia D. Johnson Martha2014-06-22 Caron 11:41:29 PMMr. and Mrs. Brian Eddy Ms. Marjorie Guroff Nancy Jovanovich Mr. and Mrs. James Carr Mr. and Mrs. Jeb Eddy Holly Haefele Spencer and Susan Joyner Jr. Ms. Anne Carroll Linda Edelman Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Hall Mr. Richard E. Kamp Centennial Senior Center, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. John Edie and Family Pam Halsey Karla Karash Randy Cepuch Mr. and Mrs. John Edson Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hamann Allen Kasiewicz Mr. and Mrs. Clark Chandler Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Edwards Mr. Jeffrey G. Hamlin Elinor Kehas Martha Chandler Mr. Gregory Egli Evie Hammerman Lynn Kehoe Edward H. Chapman Midge Eliassen Celia Harper Mary Kellogg Jocelyn D. Chertoff MD Mr. and Mrs. Tom Elkinton John Harrigan Kellogg Family Mrs. Mary F. Chesebrough Chris Elliot Rachel Harrigan Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly Christopher P. Williams, Architects Mr. and Mrs. William A. Emerson Mr Joel Harrington Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Kelly Circle Dental Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Emmons Mr. and Mrs. Chip Harris Margaret V. Kemp Mr. and Mrs. Fred G. Clark Mr. Richard Englund Frances Harris Mark Kendall Mr. and Mrs. Warren Clark Jay and Lynne Espy John and Patricia Harris Mr. Bob Kennelly Clarke’s Hardware Jennifer Esten Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hartford Elizabeth Kent Mr. and Mrs. Richard Clayton Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth H. Evans Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William Hassett Mr. and Mrs. Jay W. Kenty Mr. and Mrs. Pete Cohee Ms. Jean Evvard Mr. Roger Hatch Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Keough James and Jackie Colthart Experience Squam Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Hathaway Mr. and Mrs. William R. Keylor Suan Columbia Anita B. Fahy Mr. John Hawes Kezar Lake Protective Association Dr. and Mrs. James F. Conway Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Fairman Hawkeye Appraisals, LLC Mr. Keith Kidder Mr. Hamilton Coolidge Michael and Sharon Fanger Susan Hayes King Arthur Flour Kingston Lake Association Will and Judy Mack Thomas and Jean Nuzum Mr. Jason Saghir Kingswood Camp Scott MacKay Karalyn Obey Mr. James D. Salmon Kingwood Lake Public Association Paul Maggiotto Mr. and Mrs. Pete O’Brien Sand Pond Association Corrie Kinnicutt Ms. Elizabeth Mahan Mr. Robert P. Odell Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Nick Sanders Hartford Kit Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Maher Mr. and Mrs. Walter Ohnemus Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Sands Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James Klimas Kim Malley Mr. and Mrs. Emery Olcott Mr. and Mrs. Larry Sands Mr. Jeffrey C. Knight Dean Malouta Jack Oliver Mr. and Mrs. Robert T. Sanford Sarah Knowlton Pamela Mannion Opechee Garden Club Joyce A Saturley William Kobertz Christi Maple Andrew Opel Savings Bank of Walpole Ines Kochman Ms. Carol Maraldo Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ormrod Carolyn Sawyer Janet Koehnke Bill and Cynthia Marcus Otter Pond Protective Association Mr. and Mrs. Donald Schaalman Kolelemook Lake Protective Assoc. Mitzi Marsh Mr. and Mrs. Richard Otto Jane Schindler Ms. Lula B. Kopper Drs. William and Stefanie Marsh Our Lady of Massabesic Lake Caroline Schoerner Mr. and Mrs. Ron Koron Mr. and Mrs. Gordon L. Marshall Karen Palma-Halliday David W. Schorer Ed and Liz Kotowski Frances Marshman Mr. and Mrs. Scott Palmer Mr. Merle Schotanus Dr. and Mrs. Karl Kramer Andy Mathieson Mr. and Mrs. Henry Parker Kathie Schuster Timothy Krebs Ms. Cathy May Mr. Northam D. Parr Mr. and Mrs. Bruce M. Schwaegler Mr. and Mrs. John Kreitler Mr. Ronald Mayer Heath Partington Mr. and Mrs. Frank Seabury II Michael Kretschmann Mr. and Mrs. Roger Maynard Jr. Dr. David Pawlowski Mr. David O. Sears Martha Kruse Richard McCarthy Ms. Jeannie E. Pearce Ms. Olivia E. Sears Chris D. Kuhn Mr. and Mrs. George McClelland Mr. and Mrs. Doug Peel Mr. Rob Sedgwick Ladies on the Lake Barbara and Clark McClure Dick Pendergast David Semmens Lake Kanasatka Watershed Assoc. Mr. and Mrs. John McCormick Perkins Pond Protective Association Mr. and Mrs. Paul W. Shannon Lake Massasecum Improvement Nancy McDonald Mr. and Ms. Jeff Pero Ms. Deirdre Sheerr-Gross Association Kathy McEachern Ann Perra Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Sheldon Lake Todd Village District Mrs. Cynthia McFadden Mr. Gerald J. Peters Mr. and Mrs. John Sherman Lake Wicwas Association, Inc. John McGonagle A Ray Petty Mr. and Mrs. Robert Shirey Lake Winnisquam Drive Assoc. Mr. and Mrs. Jim McGuire Lee Petty Alicia Shortill Lakes Region Computer Mr. and Mrs. Scott E. McLeod Mr. and Mrs. Don Picard Susanne Shrader Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Lambert & Family Nancy Pierce Suzan Sigmond Richard Lamperti John and Mary Ann McRae Roy Pierce Peter Simkin John Landino Meadow Pond Animal Hospital Pleasant Lake Preservation Assoc. Henry Simonds Lanes End, Inc. MegaPrint, Inc Mark Pokras Ingrid Skadberg Langdon Cove Association Lisa Melancon Cate Poole Susan S. Small Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Lapointe Meredith Bay Colony Club Susan Postlewaite David Smith Bob Larsen Meredith Insurance Agency, LLC B Powell Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Smith Mr. and Mrs. David A. Larson Meredith Rotary Club Marjorie Powell Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. Snelling Ruth Larson Mr. Frederick B. Merk Mrs. Susan H. Pratt Betsy Snider Laurel Lake Association Mr. David Merker Todd Prentiss Melissa Sorensen Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Lauterwasser Mr. John P. Merrill Prospect Hill Antiques Mrs. Priscilla Sorlien Mr. and Mrs. John W. Laverack Dr. and Mrs. Henry Metzger Ms. Sara J. Prouty South Eastern Retired Educators Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Laverack Mr. and Mrs. Robert Metzger Mr. Gerard Provencher Association Mr. Ronald G. Lawler Mr. Craig R. Meyer Province Lake Association Lorna Sullivan Souza Andrew Lawrence Millen Lake Association Mr. and Mrs. David K. Pruden Mr. Stephen Spaulding Mr. Nick Leadley Mr. Kevin Mills Lynne Quada Ben Sprachman Norman LeBlanc Anne D. Milne Mr. Timothy Quinn Kathryn Springsteen Mr. and Mrs. C. Bruce Ledig Mr. and Mrs. Al H. Miltner Ms. Julie Ramsey Jacqueline Spurr Liz Leibowitz Mirror Lake Protective Assoc. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ranger Squam Brewing Mr. and Mrs. John Leith Mr. Nader Moavenian Mr. and Mrs. Allen F. Rapp Mr. and Mrs. Henry J. Sredl Mr. and Mrs. Guy Leone Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey S. Molina Mr. David Redman Mr. and Mrs. Dick St. Onge Mr. and Mrs. Martin Levetin Sy Montgomery Mrs. Elaine J. Reis Mr. Dan T. Stack Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Ley Mr. and Mrs. Joel S. Mooney ReMax Bayside Adam Stauts Edward and Mary Liston Thomas Morrison Renaissance Charitable Fndn. Peter Steckler David Litchfield Mr. and Mrs. Tom Morrissey Frances Rhoads Dr. and Mrs. Theodore I. Steinman Mr. Bill Little Mount Sunapee Resort Robin and Bob Ribokas Mr. and Mrs. Ken Stern Little Nature Museum David Mourer Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rice Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sternin Lively Designs Picture Framing Mr. Dennis Murphy Hamilton and Joanne Richards Nancy and Bruce Stetson Liz Hause Interior Design Leanna Murphy Mr. and Mrs. Harold S. Ricker Davin Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Long Mr. and Mrs. Roger F. Murray III Mr. David P. Ries Phyllis Stibler Long Island Bridge Campground Janet Nelson Mr. Louis Roberts Mr. and Mrs. Mike Stolpinski Loon Mountain Recreation Corp. Bill Nesheim Jeffrey H. Robinson Mr. Guy W. Stoye Loon Pond Owners Association NH Garden Club Roche Realty Group Barbara Strohbehn Daniel LoPolito NH Orthopaedic Center Mr. and Mrs. John Rollins Richard and Ruth Stuart Steve Lornitzo NH Environmental Consultants Allyson Ross Mr. and Mrs. Peter J. Sullivan Reverend Sid Lovett NH Mushroom Company Dr. Gene Ross Ms. Marjorie Sullivan-Turley Laurel Luby Ms. Ann Nichols Malcolm Ross Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Sunderland Mr. Mark C. Luff Mr. Paul R. Nickerson Mr. and Mrs. Stephen R. Rounds Priscilla Sutcliffe Elmer and Claire Lupton Karen North Mr. Murray Ruben Swains Lake Association Kathleen Luz Mr. Robert S. North Mr. and Mrs. Ken Ruhm Mr. and Mrs. Murray Swindell Mrs. Patricia W. MacCabe Mr. George W. Noyes Mr. and Mrs. Mike Ruyffelaert T F Ward Insurance Agency Mr. and Mrs. Alan MacGregor Henry Nuzum R.F. Rylander Joy Tarbell Robert Taylor Barbara Thaeder The Kalled Gallery Mr. and Mrs. Carl W. Thieme Mrs. Barbara M. Thomas The Rawson L. Wood Society Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Thorndike William Thorpe ave you considered becoming a member of our Margaret Thrasher Planned Giving Society? Your legacy gift is a way Three Ponds Protective Association H Joan M. Thuebel of helping us continue our mission to restore and Evan Tilley maintain a healthy population of loons throughout Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Tompkins Allen Torrey New Hampshire. Germaine Towle Philip Trasatti Dr. and Mrs. Robert C. Trautwein Contact Harry Vogel, Senior Biologist/Exec. Director, Kathleen Trider at 603-476-5666 for more information. Mr. and Mrs. Will Twombly Mr. and Mrs. Roger Uhler Mr. and Mrs. Stephen K. Urner Tiina Urv Lori Van Dam Wendy and Rick Van de Poll Cornelius Van Diggelen Reverend Jane W. Van Zandt Mr. and Mrs. Gene Venable Mr. and Ms. Dennis Vienneau Village Kitchen Ms. Patricia Vittum Mr. and Mrs. Robert Volpe Frances Von Mertens Donna Wagner Charles Walcott John Waldhausen Ann E. Walker Mr. and Mrs. Tom Wallitsch Mr. and Mrs. Kent F. Warner Mr. and Mrs. Renny Warren

Page Wasson Photo Courtesy of Kittie Wilson Waukewan Golf Course Mr. Michael F. Webster Pat and Sophie Wechsler Andrew Wells Mr. and Mrs. Tim Wells Richard Werkowski Mr. and Mrs. David White Ms. Wendy E. White White Oak Pond Watershed Assoc. Mr. and Mrs. John S. Whiting Mr. and Mrs. Douglas C. Whitley Mr. Craig H. Wiggin Beverly K. Wilson Bonnie Wilson Don Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth D. Wilson Diane Winn LPC Annual Meeting Ms. Debora R. Wirth Nancy C. Wolf Sarah Wolf August 23, 2018 Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Wood III Mr. Charles C. Woodard Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Woodin The Loon Center Woodlands Shores Assn., Inc Mr. and Mrs. Bill Wright YMCA Camp Belknap 5:30 pm Potluck Dinner Dr. Carey York-Best 6:45 pm Annual Meeting Mrs. Roland Young Stephen Young 7:00 pm Loon Presentation Mr. and Mrs. Richard Zeloski Mr. and Mrs. John Zenker & State of The Loon Report Mrs. Sinclair Ziesing Expanding the Circle of Concern for Squam

ver since LPC discovered ecosystem manifesting itself in a for late summer fish sampling on Eelevated levels of chemical top-level predator but which is Squam to assess contaminants contaminants in unhatched loon not clearly from a factory pipe or in the food web and potential eggs from Squam Lake over 10 other point source falls through human health effects from these years ago, we have been working the established programs of DES. contaminants. DES is in the to recruit partners to help in our Consequently, there is no state process of securing funds from efforts to track down the sources funding to address the issue. US Environmental Protection of these contaminants, from state Agency for contaminant testing in these fish samples. PCB’s come and federal agencies to organiza- s indicators of the health of tions around Squam Lake. These in many forms; and the SLA is, at the aquatic environment, efforts met with mixed success A present, planning to test sediment because of limitations of funding Squam’s loons originally alerted samples this summer for a limited and staff time of these agencies us to the problem of contamina- set of PCB’s and DDT. Research- and organizations, so LPC took tion on Squam Lake, and they ers at PSU are planning a study of the initiative to sample crayfish will continue to serve as sensi- contaminant pathways at the sites and sediments throughout the tive barometers of contamination identified as elevated for DDT by LPC. SLA is also planning on col- Squam watershed with help in the watershed. and advice from researchers at lecting local history information New Hampshire Department of from Squam residents to learn Environmental Services (DES), Within these limitations, DES about potential historic sources Plymouth State University (PSU), is working with LPC to assist as of contamination in the water- US Environmental Protection they can to organize tasks among shed. This past spring, LPC sent Agency, and US Fish and Wild- collaborators and move the its collaborators detailed recom- life Service to identify potential project forward. Last fall, staff mendations for future sediment sources of contaminants. from New Hampshire Geological sampling. It is hoped that these These efforts culminated in Survey completed an assessment efforts will continue to help us spring 2017 with the submis- of the culverts near the sites of track sources and extent of con- sion of a report to DES reporting contaminated sediments identi- tamination in the watershed, with the results of LPC’s sediment fied by LPC. Plans are underway a goal of understanding what sampling and our discovery of

three locations of contaminated Photo Courtesy of Kittie Wilson sediments around Squam (one site for PCB’s [industrial insulat- ing agents] and dioxins/furans [by-products of manufacturing processes] and two sites for DDT [an insecticide]). At all three of these locations, the contaminant levels exceeded sediment quality guidelines indicating possible or probable harm to aquatic life. Since the submission of this report to DES, staff from LPC, the Squam Lakes Association (SLA), and PSU have met on several oc- casions to review LPC’s findings and plan our next steps to ad- dress this issue. This has been an education for LPC in the limits of what falls under the purview of DES: contamination in a lake

- 16 - steps may be taken towards reme- diation of contaminated sites. LPC’s “Loon Cam” Continues to Enthrall Based on LPC’s testing of unhatched Squam Lake loon eggs, Viewers Worldwide Squam’s loons are carrying a contaminant body burden that n 2017, for the fifth year, the learn from our previous experi- includes not just DDT and PCB’s ILoon Preservation Committee ence which allows us to make but dioxins, furans, flame retar- streamed live footage of a pair adjustments and improvements dants (PBDE’s), stain repellants of nesting loons on a lake in the to the camera set-up. We are so (PFC’s), and chlordane (another Lakes Region of New Hampshire. fortunate to have the technical insecticide). LPC remains con- The camera started streaming on expertise of LPC volunteer Bill cerned about the overall con- May 3 but the loons did not start Gassman, who has been instru- taminant body burden of Squam’s nesting until May 25. Up until mental once again with the set-up loons. LPC’s sediment testing that time viewers watched differ- and daily operation of our live identified potential sources for ent species of turtles basking in “loon cam” this year. From dry- DDT, PCB’s, and dioxins/fu- the sun on the 2017 nest site and runs with the new equipment rans; but, to date, we have not also had a chance to watch some over the winter to meeting the identified sources for these other pre-nesting loon behavior includ- cable technician on-site to an- contaminants. Full testing of ing copulation and nest building. swering technical questions and these contaminants in sediments The high definition video cap- participating in the chat forum on is needed to identify, if possible, tured the first egg on May 25, and YouTube to catching highlights sources of other contaminants. two eggs were seen on May 28. and creating video clips, Bill LPC continues to advocate for Both of these adults are band- has contributed countless hours testing that covers the full scope ed so we were able to confirm and has been there every step of of contaminants of concern that the same pair of loons was the way with great enthusiasm. revealed by our efforts and will back at the nest this year. The Thank you, Bill! work to retain portions of samples peak of nest initiation usually We look forward to giving our for future testing. occurs the first week of June, and members a more in-depth sum- The loons ultimately will tell this loon pair was among the first mary of the “loon cam” in LPC’s us about the success of any work loons in the state to initiate a nest. Fall Newsletter. We are hopeful or remediation done on Squam. The female of this pair has been it will be ranked in the top 5 again As indicators of the health of the on the lake since she was first in the live animal and pet catego- aquatic environment, Squam’s banded as an adult with chicks ry on YouTube! After all, a local loons originally alerted us to in 1998. Since the average age of New Hampshire morning radio the problem of contamination first breeding in New Hampshire personality said “Move over April on Squam Lake, and they will is 6 years old, she is probably 26 the Giraffe” in a recent article continue to serve as sensitive ba- years old or older. This makes about LPC’s webcam! rometers of contamination in the her the second oldest female still watershed. LPC has committed to breeding in New Hampshire, that ~Susie Burbidge continuing to test unhatched loon we know of, and she is even older eggs from Squam for these con- than most of our field biologists! taminants, and we will continue In 2017, this pair hatched one to take a leadership role in con- chick—probably the most famous NEWS FLASH! taminants work on Squam. This loon chick in the world—that is an issue we are strongly invest- successfully fledged from the lake ed in, and we are determined to last fall! At press time, the “loon see that the work continues to be We installed a new micro- cam” pair had successfully done in a way that is best for the phone this year that has volume hatched two chicks! A sec- loons, for the health of the Squam control so we can hear all of the ond “loom cam” is already ecosystem, and the wildlife and sounds close to the nest, while underway on LPC’s YouTube people that call Squam home. at the same time, muffling back- channel, website, and as a ground sounds which helps pro- livestream at The Loon Cen- ~Tiffany Grade tect the privacy of the homeown- ter. See page 18 for more details! ers on the lake. Each year we

- 17 - LOON PRESERVATION COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES

“Each new year is a surprise to us. We find that we had virtually forgotten the note of each bird, and when you hear it again, it is remembered like a dream, reminding us of a previous state of existence . . . The voice of nature is always encouraging.” ~Henry David Thoreau

For the fifth year, the Loon Preserva- tion Committee streamed live foot- age of nesting loons on lakes in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. This loon pair started nesting on May 25.

At press time this pair had successfully hatched two chicks on June 21 and 22! A second “loon cam” is already underway and can be viewed on the Loon Preservation Committee’s You- Tube channel, on our website, as well as at The Loon Center. If all goes well, the anticipated hatch date is between July 20 and July 22.

“It takes a lake to raise loon chicks!” ~Kittie Wilson •Loons do not stay on the nest with their chicks. They are true water birds and will always be out on the water. •Loon chicks are very small. They can only make short, shallow dives. They do not swim fast, and they cannot fly. They spend time tucked on their parent’s back as well as bobbing by their parent’s side. •Loon families usually have a designated nursery area. Their range increases as the chicks grow stronger. •Boaters beware! Slow down if you see a loon. You could run over a chick without ever seeing it. Keep a sharp eye ahead as you boat. •Paddlers (kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, etc.): Keep at least 150 feet distance from the loons and never surround them. Stay only a short time to observe. •Call LPC at 603-476-5666 to report a problem or an observation.

- 18 - Lakes Region Audubon Chapter Birdathon/Bloomathon Report

he Birdathon/Bloomathon (B/B) is a volunteer fund-raising event Thosted by the Lakes Region Chapter of New Hampshire Audubon. The objective is to count as many birds and blooms as possible in a 24- hour period during the peak of songbird migration and spring blooms. Bird and bloom teams solicit per species sponsors and outright dona- tions to help raise money for the Chapter and for the Loon Preservation Committee. The Chapter has held their meetings at The Loon Center since its dedication in 1994, and members of LPC are also active Lakes Region Chapter members. One hundred twelve species of birds and 84 species of flowering plants were the totals for this year’s Birdathon/Bloomathon held on May 22nd―196 total species in Tamworth and contiguous towns. The day dawned clear, but clouds moved in and thickened during the morning, with showers and rain after 2 pm. A Northern Parula, Cape May, Wilson’s and Tennessee warbler boosted the warbler count to 22. An Olive-sided Flycatcher and Indigo Bunting were also among notable birds. Buckbean--a shallow water plant with hairy white or pinkish flowers--was an exciting new find this year, and Marsh Marigold and Fringed Polygala were back on the list. This year’s intrepid B/B Team included: Ingrid Albee, Ned Beecher, Tim Brown, Chris Clyne, Lynne Flaccus, Lucy Gatchell, Tiffany Grade, Michelle Langer, Randy Langer, Susan Lee, Jane Rice, Bob Ridgely, and Peg Ridgely.

“Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” ~Eleanor Roosevelt Photo Courtesy of Kittie Wilson WHAT AM I?

Written by Charlie Winship, Age 8 Second Grade, Larkspur, CA Summers on Pleasant Lake, New London, NH

I am bold and black with shiny feathers. I am speckled white with dark red eyes. I have wings and live on lakes. I am a mother that cares for her young. I am a teacher who teaches her babies to dive. I call to my young and it echoes for all to hear. What am I? (I am a Loon!)

- 19 - SUMMER BULLETIN BOARD

Summer Nature Talks: Thursday Evenings at 7:00pm, July 5 - August 23; FREE

Loon Festival: Saturday, July 21; 10am - 2pm; FREE Come by The Loon Center for loon-themed arts & crafts, face painting, balloon sculptures by Mo, educational loon slide shows, live animals and exhibits, music, refreshments & more!

The Winni Swim—Making a Splash for Loons!: Wednesday, July 18 (Rain date July 19) Join Pam Halsey and Brenda Gallagher for a swim or paddle around Ragged Island to call aware- ness to the plight of our loons. Registration is required and limited so sign up soon! Email: info@ loon.org or call 603-476-5666 for more details.

Carl Johnson Memorial Golf Tournament: Monday, August 20; 7am-2pm; $100 per golfer A fun morning of golf at Ridgewood Country Club. $10,000 hole-in-one grand prize along with raffle and other prizes! Breakfast and lunch included. Pre-register by August 13.

LPC Annual Meeting: Thursday, August 23; 6:45pm You are also welcome to attend the volunteer potluck dinner at 5:30pm and/or the end-of-season loon report immediately following the Annual Meeting (see page 15). Contact [email protected].

ANNUAL LOON CENSUS SATURDAY, JULY 21, 2018 8AM - 9AM

CENSUS FORM ENCLOSED (SEE PAGE 23)

Pick the Loon Preservation Committee from Amazon’s list “Ah, summer, what power you have of participating charities and to make us suffer and like it.” they will donate a portion of ~Russell Baker the purchase price to LPC!

- 20 - LOOKING AT LOONS

A Telephoto Look at the Natural History of New Hampshire’s Loons by Kittie Wilson

ewly hatched loon chicks are adorable balls of fluffy down. They can swim, do shallow dives, and rise up Nand shake their tiny wings, but they are helpless to defend or feed themselves. The loon parents act as a floating nest for the newly hatched chicks and work hard to keep the chicks well fed.

Loon chicks are fed mostly aquatic insects, small fish and tiny crayfish. During the first weeks of a chick’s life, one parent stays with the chicks on the surface of the water while the other parent hunts underwater for suitable food.

Loon parents present the food down at the level of the chick, who might be nestled on the other parent’s back, or bobbing in the water. Presentation is accompanied by soft hoots of encouragement. Fish are held crosswise in the bill. The chick must learn how to take the fish, then shift it 90 degrees so that the fish will be swallowed head first, which is typically the manner in which loons swallow fish. This shifting takes practice, and in the first weeks of life the chicks frequently drop the fish, at which time the parent must retrieve the fish and offer it again…and often again, and again, and again! The loons show infinite patience as their little chicks work to master the challenges of grasping and swallowing techniques.

References: The Common Loon, Spirit of Northern Lakes by Judith W. McIntyre

Presenting a fish to the newly hatched chick. The exchange of the fish from parent to chick.

In loving memory of Kittie Wilson, whose love for loons and generosity of spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of the Loon Preservation Committee and its mission.

The chick turns the fish and swallows it head first.

- 21 - Summer 2018 Nature Talk Series at The Loon Center 183 Lee’s Mill Road, Moultonborough, NH

Thursdays, 7:00pm w Admission Free w Donations Appreciated

July 5 A Wildlife Photographic Odyssey – Rick “MooseMan” Libby Join nature photographer Rick “The Mooseman” Libby for a photographic tour of New Hampshire’s wildlife. Enjoy his beautiful photos of the wildlife of the Lakes Region and beyond. You may even see a loon!

July 12 New Hampshire Wildlife – Squam Lake Natural Science Center Are you curious about the critters that inhabit the Granite State? Meet three wild animals that you could encounter in our forests, fields, or wetlands and discover what makes them well suited for life in New Hampshire.

July 19 Learning from Loons – Mark Pokras, DVM, Tufts Veterinary School The links between animal health, human health and the environment are undeniable. This talk will focus on how a long-term study of the common loon (Gavia immer) is contributing to our knowledge of these links.

July 26 A Century of Forest Conservation – Dave Anderson, Co-host of “Something Wild” At 84% forested, NH is the second-most forested state in the nation by total land area. Learn about NH’s forest his- tory, succession, and wildlife habitats, including historical photos of early White Mountain logging operations.

August 2 Eyes of the Wild: Hawks and Owls – Squam Lake Natural Science Center Peer into the raptor world through an up-close experience with live hawks and owls that call NH home. Compare fascinating similarities and differences between hawks and owls and how they are perfectly suited for their habitats.

August 9 New Hampshire’s Moose – Kristine Rines, New Hampshire Fish and Game This program covers the history and life history of NH’s moose. A review of current management practices and re- search, as well as a discussion of what the future holds for this icon of the northwoods, will be discussed.

August 16 Dragons and Damsels of New Hampshire – Pam Hunt, New Hampshire Audubon This program provides an overview of the biology and ecology of dragonflies and damselflies, from their amazing life cycle to their incredible diversity. It also highlights a few of NH's notable species and their stories.

August 23 State of The Loon Report – LPC Senior Biologist/Executive Director, Harry Vogel and Wildlife Photographer, John Rockwood Trends in New Hampshire’s loon population and preliminary statistics on how loons fared in NH this year will be complemented by photographs and video of a local loon family from two southern NH lakes. Save paper and send us your sightings on-line! You can submit this form at www.loon.org/census.php New Hampshire Loon Census Saturday, 21 July 2018 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Lake: ______Town: ______

Observer(s): ______

Telephone:______E-mail:______

Address: ______

______

Total number of people in party: ______

Observations:

Time # Adults # Chicks # Immatures *Location/Direction

Example 8:17 1 AD Flew in from east

1.

2.

3.

4.

TOTALS

Please note any bald eagle sightings during this hour & the loons’ response (i.e. vocalizations):

______

(1) Record only the FIRST sighting of each loon or group, then be sure to total the number of loons observed on the appropriate line. Note the direction in which the loons move or fly.

(2) If possible, please attach a sketch/map of census area and the location of any loons you observe.

(3) It is CRITICAL that observations continue for the ENTIRE HOUR.

(4) Remember, a report of zero is just as biologically important as a report of 10 loons.

(3) Your sightings from throughout the summer are also valuable. Please comment on loon activity observed at other times on the reverse of this page.

CENSUS FORMS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JULY 31 TO BE INCLUDED IN THE FINAL TALLY.

Please return this form to the LPC: PO Box 604, Moultonborough, NH 03254, or you can fax it 603-476-5497 or email it to [email protected].

If you were part of a coordinated census effort on a larger lake, please send this form to your coordinator so they can send the forms in all together. Loon Preservation Committee PO Box 604 Moultonborough, NH 03254

The Loon Preservation Committee gratefully acknowledges Squam Boat Livery for underwriting this publication.

Photo Courtesy of Kittie Wilson