Vermont Nesting Loon Population Increases in 2014
Vermont’s nesting loon population in 2014 was a record for success. There were 65 fledglings or chicks that survived to leave the nest on Vermont lakes and ponds.
In the 20th century, primarily because of shoreline development and human disturbance, nesting loon populations showed dramatic declines. However, in 2005 loons were removed from Vermont’s endangered species list after decades of recovery effort.
Peregrine falcons, which were also removed from the Vermont endangered list in 2005 also showed strong nesting success this year.
“Rare birds such as peregrine falcons and loons are very sensitive to human disturbance while nesting. They nest only in a few specific habitats, so they need to find these in undeveloped places that are away from people.” ~ John Buck, nongame bird project leader for Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
The lingering winter weather of 2014 did seem to impact Vermont’s nesting bald eagles. Only 17 fledglings were reported in 2014 – a dramatic decline from the 2013 record of 26 fledglings.
“A single down year for bald eagle nesting is not a major concern at this point, as nesting success will vary from year to year due to fluctuations in weather or food. We remain optimistic about the future of eagles in Vermont due to the widespread reports we have received of adult eagles throughout the state.” ~ John Buck, Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
Although bald eagles are no longer a federally endangered species, they are still listed as endangered species in Vermont because of their slow recovery in the state.
Other bird species showed mixed nesting success this year. Common terns produced only 16 fledglings out of 220 nests primarily due to gull and great-horned owl predation at their nests.
“The return of loons and peregrines to Vermont is one of the state’s great conservation success stories, but much remains to be done,” said Buck. “The continued support from our partners and from the citizens of Vermont is critical for the future success of these important species.”
For more information, and to help support researchers in their efforts to conserve nongame birds Vermonters can donate online to the nongame Wildlife Fund at www.vtfishandwildlife.com/