Loons Return After Falling from the Sky: A Spring Phenomenon
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Chapter 1: Understanding Loon Fallout
Have you ever come across the term "loon fallout"? Recently, we experienced one such event in the Upper Midwest!
Image by PublicDomainImages from Pixabay
The call of a loon is unforgettable to anyone who has heard it. These birds inhabit our northern Wisconsin lakes, returning each spring after migrating from warmer areas for the winter.
On April 23rd, a phenomenon occurred where loons were seen plummeting from the sky in Wisconsin! The unexpected cold weather resulted in ice forming on their feathers as they flew, which caused them to fall. This incident is known as a loon fallout, a situation that has occurred before and is likely to happen again.
The issue with loons falling from the sky due to frozen feathers is that they are not adapted to land. Unlike typical land birds, loons are specialized waterfowl that struggle to walk on dry ground. As a result, they rely heavily on open water for landing, taking off, and their daily activities.
Given the timing, it seems that the loons were in the process of migrating back to our beautiful lakes. Some bodies of water were already open and welcoming for their return, but our lake, capable of hosting at least a pair or two of loons each summer, still had ice when the fallout occurred on the 23rd.
Reports of loon fallout were recorded in Tomahawk, Wisconsin. Fortunately, local rescue organizations were on hand to assist the loons as they fell from the sky.
Despite their sharp beaks, which can pose a danger during rescue efforts, these organizations aim to help the birds return to their natural habitats. The Raptor Education Group, Inc. (REGI), along with Loon Rescue, provided support and encouraged community members to report any fallen loons for assistance.
The first video, "Why are loons falling from the sky in northern Wisconsin?" explains this unusual occurrence and its implications for local wildlife.
Chapter 2: The Aftermath of Loon Fallout
As temperatures dipped, the phenomenon known as "loon fallout" took place, causing loons to fall unexpectedly from the sky.
The second video, "Loons are falling from the sky in Wisconsin," delves into the details surrounding this event and its effects on the local ecosystem.
Fortunately, we have never witnessed loons stranded on land, but we do cherish their presence on our lake. A day after the ice melted, loons returned to the water. I spotted three swimming and heard a fourth making its distinctive yodel call.
Did you know that loons have a variety of calls beyond their famous tremolo? They create a range of sounds, which we enjoy listening to both at night and in the morning. The calls are a comforting reminder of our avian neighbors on the lake.
The Call of the Loon
For many, the haunting call of a loon serves as an introduction to this remarkable species. Their vocalizations are unique and captivating.
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