Help Save Loons ‘Iced-In’ On Lakes In Minnesota + Wisconsin

These loons have had a rough year in the upper Midwest. Earlier this spring, loons were literally falling out of the sky and needed to be rescued after bizarre weather caused them to ice up. Now this year a quick freeze on lakes has left some loons stranded with no way to get out of the lake.

Minnesota's state bird does have feet, but they aren't made for walking. Loons need a 'runway' of water to successfully take off. That's why this spring many had to be rescued after crash landing in fields after their wings were icing up. 

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Loons also may confuse shallow puddles of water in fields and parking lots as bodies of water. They can get stuck there too without a way to take off.

Related: What Are Average Ice-In Dates On Minnesota Lakes?

I noticed a post on social media to Loon Rescue that showed loons freezing in. Volunteers are asking the public to notify them if there are any loons still on lakes that are icing up. They want to make sure that they are on their "radar" so they can check to see if they need a rescue.

They add that if you hear a loon calling on the lake, it could be a sign it is icing in, so try to locate the loon, take a picture, and give them a call at 715-966-5415 or 715-453-4916.

Today is also Loon Rescue Thanks For Giving Day and they are asking for donations. They have the support of many other wildlife rescue organizations.