Donna Baker-Hartwell, a loon volunteer, and Matthew Bartolotti of the New Hampshire Loon Preservation Committee both observed an adult loon nesting on the island in Highland Lake on June 18. Because we are not exactly sure when the eggs were laid, we expect that they might hatch around July 16. Normal gestation for loons is 27 to 30 days.

The nest is located on the south shore of the island, not on the floating nest platform, which means that fluctuations in water levels are critical. Boaters coming out of the channel and causing a wake on the south side of the island could wash the nest or eggs away.

Folks should use extra caution when water-skiing and motoring not to do so on the south side of the island – use a “No Wake” speed until west or north of the island. Staying west and north of the island should be fine for water-skiing or power motoring.

No dogs are allowed on the island for the next four weeks! Lake residents and users can help ensure that the loon eggs have the best chance to hatch by informing visitors about our loon family and its nest.

The weekend of July 4 is the busiest time on the lake and the most critical time for the nest. There are floating signs near the area to help in locating the nesting site. There are yellow caution ribbons on the island marking the nesting area. Please give the loons and the nest site plenty of space.

Note: The success rate of loon nest is low. Approximately 50% of all eggs laid hatch, and only 50% of chicks actually survive the first summer. Loons lay one to two eggs.