Lakes and ponds are only becoming busier. Loons nest in disturbance-prone areas just a few feet from shoreline?and their nests often fail when humans or other animals approach and drive loons off their incubating eggs. They raise their young on open water, vulnerable to predation by eagles and disturbance by boaters. Every year, some loons die after becoming entangled in fishing gear or ingesting lead tackle. And emerging threats are on the rise, including the effects of climate change and the fungal disease Aspergillosis, which has killed loons on Vermont ponds in recent years.

In order for Vermont?s loon population to continue to thrive, we cannot take our foot off the gas?the Vermont Loon Conservation Project, and its hundreds of volunteers, must continue to manage and monitor these vulnerable birds.

The need for support and continued effort is greater than ever before.

The good news is, we know what works! The Vermont Loon Conservation Project?through the combined strength of the Vermont Center for Ecostudies, a legion of dedicated volunteers, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, and partnerships with hydropower dam operators and lakeshore landowners?has ushered in Vermont's loon recovery. With your help, loons will remain secure in Vermont for years to come.

Front artwork: Digital drawing / Katama Murray / Teach Peace Prints

Back artwork: Linoleum block print / AnnaLisa Mayer