Protecting Adirondack Loons: The Science, the Threats, and the Hope

Loons are one of the defining sounds of an Adirondack summer, but protecting them takes far more than admiration from afar. In this episode of ADK Talks, we welcome back Denise Silfee of the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation, along with Dr. Lizz Schuyler, the organization’s new Senior Director of Science and Conservation, for a fascinating conversation about what loons can teach us about the health of Adirondack lakes.We talk about why loons are such powerful environmental sentinels, how decades of research are helping scientists track mercury and other pollutants, and why new concerns like PFAS and wake boat activity are getting so much attention. Denise and Lizz also walk us through loon banding, rescue efforts, the dangers of lead tackle and discarded fishing line, and the simple ways everyday recreation choices can make a real difference for wildlife.You’ll also hear about new ways the public can get involved, from the annual loon census to a new community science effort focused on boat activity, plus summer events, guided paddles, and bird nerd trivia. If you love Adirondack lakes, wildlife, and the haunting beauty of a loon call at dusk, this episode is for you.What you’ll hear in this episodeLoons spend five to seven months of the year at sea, and researchers still have much to learn about that part of their life cycle.Why loons matter as indicator species, and how mercury, acid rain, and emerging contaminants like PFAS can reveal the health of Adirondack waters.How loon banding works, what scientists learn from it, and why individual birds can be tracked for decades.Why lead tackle remains such a serious threat, especially when loons ingest hooks or jigs through fish.What wake boats may mean for loon nests, water clarity, fish habitat, shoreline erosion, and overall lake health.How listeners can help through the loon census, guided paddles, rescue reporting, and the new Tackle Box Ambassador program.Resources:Adirondack Center for Loon ConservationAdirondack Loon Center in Saranac LakeLoons on ADK TalksLoon Zoom eventsPaul Smith’s VICGreat Adirondack Birding Celebration at Paul Smith’sProduced by NOVA