LOON NEST UPDATE – Please Observe From Afar!
We are excited to share that we have two pairs of nesting loons on our lake this year! One is at the south end of the lake, where that pair nested last year. So far, things appear to be going smoothly for this experienced pair! The other is at the north end using the nest raft, which we installed in early April for them to find when they returned in the spring. This pair built a nest and appeared to be incubating an egg(s). However, after about 10 days, they abandoned the nest. We’re unsure whether something happened to the egg(s) (possibly stolen by an otter or muskrat), or if they might have been attempting to incubate three egg sized rocks that they rolled into the nest from the edge of the raft! There is evidence that, while rare, young loons have been known to do this. Silly birds! Either way, we’re hopeful that they will mate again, based on observed behavior. Stay tuned for updates!
Our loons have been successful because of the cooperation between the Friends Lake community and the ADK Center for Loon Conservation. One of the best ways to encourage their success is to give them their space while they incubate their eggs. This means keeping a distance of at least 150 feet. If the loons abandon their nests due to either natural predation or human interference, their eggs won’t be viable, and they might not try again until next year. Please remember that the best way to observe the loons on their nests is with your binoculars – please encourage others to do so too!
Fireworks Reminder
Warren County prohibits the use of all consumer fireworks, including sparklers and “sparkling devices.” As we approach the July 4th holiday, please remember that fireworks pose fire and safety risks, disturb wildlife and pets, and leave debris and toxins in our pristine lake. We ask all residents and guests to help keep our community safe and peaceful by respecting the countywide ban. Thank you for doing your part.
Eurasian Milfoil Update
The results from last years’ efforts for surveying and harvesting were satisfactory. Though Eurasian Milfoil was found during all three surveys, the amounts continue to be very small and localized. FLPOA is again contracting with Aqualogic of Chestertown to survey and harvest three times between June and September.
Wake Boats
Recently, the challenge of wake boats on lake environs has been explored in New York, Vermont and other states. To help us understand their impacts Scott Ireland, Adirondack Lakes Alliance Executive Director, will join us at our Annual Meeting.
Lake Clean Up
This summer we will be working toward our sixth “Loon Friendly Lake” certification. There is a lot of work that goes into this, but one of the most important requirements is keeping our lake clean and safe for our loons (and other wildlife), which means removing trash, especially fishing line and hooks from the lake. (If you’re an angler, PLEASE do not use lead sinkers, as lead is highly toxic to loons who catch and eat fish that might have swallowed them.)
As always, we will have two scheduled lake clean-ups, a requirement for the certification. The first will be the first week of July, when many people are at the lake. To make it easy to participate, please pick a day and time of your choice to scour the lake and surrounding areas. All it takes is 15-30 minutes of your time! (Be sure to look up into the trees near the shore, where fishing line sometimes gets entangled and left there.) We need to provide the ACLC with the number of people who participate, as well as what was found, so please email Hali with that information hali.holmes@friendslakeny.org. (Pictures are always welcomed.)
As an incentive, anyone who helps with the clean-up (and reports it by July 10) will have a chance to enter the “Name that Loon” contest once the chicks hatch! Enjoy the summer and the sights and sounds of the loons!