Loons, magnificent birds known for their haunting calls, can be found in various parts of the United States. Their breeding range extends from Alaska down to certain regions of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. These northern forested lakes and rivers serve as their preferred habitats during the breeding season, which typically begins in April or early May.
Having spent a significant amount of time studying and observing loons, I have had the privilege of witnessing their return to these forested lakes and rivers in the springtime. It is a truly magical experience to see these elegant birds arrive after their long migrations.
In Alaska, loons can be found throughout the state, including in remote areas such as the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the Kenai Fjords National Park. They are also commonly spotted in the Aleutian Islands and along the coastlines of the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska.
Moving south into Canada, loons are widespread across much of the country. From the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta in the west, all the way to the Atlantic provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador in the east, loons are a familiar sight on the many lakes and rivers that dot the Canadian landscape. In fact, Canada is home to the largest breeding population of loons in the world.
As we venture into the lower 48 states, the presence of loons becomes more localized. In the western part of the United States, loons can be found in certain areas of Washington, Idaho, and Montana. These states offer suitable habitats with their numerous lakes and rivers, providing ample opportunities for loons to breed and raise their young.
Heading further east, loons are also found in parts of North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. The Great Lakes region, in particular, is known for its loon populations, and their haunting calls can often be heard echoing across the vast expanses of these massive lakes.
Continuing eastward, loons can be found in certain areas of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. These states, with their abundance of forested lakes and rivers, provide ideal breeding grounds for loons. The Adirondack Mountains in New York and the Rangeley Lakes region in Maine are particularly known for their loon populations.
Loons can be found in various parts of the United States, primarily in the northern forested regions. From Alaska down to certain areas of Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, these majestic birds grace the lakes and rivers with their presence during the breeding season. It is a true delight to witness the return of the loons each spring and to admire their beauty in their natural habitats.