If two loons are together near inlets, marshy shorelines, or backwaters in May or June, a nest site may have been disturbed. Nursery Room Loon chicks rest, feed and grow in and around their territory during the months of June, July and August. Look for them in backwaters and along the shoreline. They need to be able to climb up on their parents' backs to stay warm and dry. When watercraft come close, parents leave their chicks to defend their territory.
Young chicks are very buoyant and can t dive quickly to get out of the way.
They can be run over. Chicks tire easily. The presence of watercraft causes them to keep swimming instead of feeding and resting. This can weaken them, affecting their ability to survive. Ways Watercraft Affect Loons Canoes slip quietly into nesting areas and can startle loons off nests.