Hearing and seeing Common Loons, the American Birding Association’s 2025 Bird of the Year, is a beloved summer experience for birders, wildlife photographers, nature enthusiasts, and many other hobbyists throughout the U.S. and Canada. As we enjoy this magnificent species, it’s important to remember to interact with Common Loons responsibly during their breeding season, especially since it coincides with various other popular summer activities like fishing, boating, and swimming. Whether we’re birding or enjoying the summer lake in other ways, we can make a difference in nesting success.

Loons often nest right at the water’s edge, making their eggs vulnerable to boat wakes and disturbance. If you spot a loon acting anxiously, give it space. It may be protecting a nest nearby. Photo by © Ray Hennessy.

Getting too close for the perfect photo can stress loons and even cause nest abandonment. Use binoculars or a long lens and enjoy the view without disturbing the bird. Photo by © Jeremy Hynes.

One of the most important things is to maintain a safe distance. Stay at least 150 feet (45 meters) away from loons, especially around a nest. Some conservation groups recommend even more. If a loon flattens its body over its nest or cranes its neck toward the water, it is making a sign of distress. Back away calmly. Threatened loons feel an instinct to get back in the water, where they are less vulnerable than on land.

If the loon leaves its nest and gets in the water, the nest then becomes vulnerable to predators. The parent loon also stops regulating the temperature of the eggs beneath it, which can result in the eggs overheating or being too chilled. If a loon you are watching does get off the nest, leave immediately. The loon may soon return and continue incubating. If a loon stays off the nest too long, the nest may be abandoned entirely.

Try to minimize noise and disturbance. Certainly, avoid loud noises near known nesting areas, including shouting, music, and fireworks. Refrain from using drones around nesting sites as those can cause significant distress and in some places are legally restricted around nesting birds.

If fishing, practice loon-friendly fishing practices by using non-lead fishing tackle, which prevents lead poisoning in loons. Properly dispose of fishing lines and hooks to prevent entanglement, which can result in serious injury or even death in loons. Chicks are especially vulnerable. Some lakes have line disposal bins and lead bans, so be sure to check.

You’ll often hear loons before you see them, especially at dawn or dusk. It’s one of the most haunting, unforgettable sounds of summer in the North. Photo by © Jeremy Hynes.

Under no circumstances should you attempt to touch loon nests or chicks, no matter how cute. Be cautious when boating near shorelines, as nests are often situated close to water’s edge. Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations. Creating wakes can sometimes wash out loon nests since they are close to shore. Loons sometimes nest in quiet coves near docks, so when on a dock be observant of potential nests and act accordingly. Construction or repair of docks during peak nesting season can cause nest abandonment or degrade important habitat.

In general, use binoculars or scopes to watch loons. Don’t approach too closely for a perfect photo, whether on water or land: it’s not worth hurting the bird. Limit viewing time to reduce stress.

Sometimes, particularly in the Northeast, loons nest on islands or floating platforms, so be aware of the places where or circumstances in which loons may be nesting. If you’re a visitor, look into local conservation efforts and guidelines, such as this group that was recently spotlighted in another ABA web article: https://www.aba.org/how-a-maine-lake-community-is-protecting-common-loons-abas-bird-of-the-year/.

Remember also that in the U.S., Common Loons are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which means it’s illegal to harass, harm, or possess Common Loons. In Canada, Common Loons are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, which makes it illegal to hunt, kill, or capture loons without a permit, as well as making it illegal to harm their nests. Some states and provinces may have additional protections.

Discarded fishing line and lead tackle can injure or kill loons. Always clean up after fishing and choose non-lead gear to keep lakes safe for these iconic birds. Photo by © Jeremy Hynes.

To find and enjoy Common Loons this summer, try going to clear freshwater lakes, especially larger ones, in the northern U.S. and Canada in the early morning or late evening, when loons are most active. Listen for their familiar wails and yodels, as loons are often heard before seen. Loons can also be heard at night. If you want to get a nice picture, use a telephoto lens if possible, so you can capture the moment without approaching too closely.

Common Loons are one of the ABA Area’s most beloved species. As we continue to enjoy the ABA 2025 Bird of the Year, remember to respect and protect loons as well, so that future generations can keep celebrating loons for many years to come.

Frank Izaguirre is an Editor of Birding magazine. He lives in Pittsburgh, PA, with his wife, Adrienne, and daughter, Maya.