Gettin’ looney for loons!

Loons are some of the most unique waterbirds on the planet. They’re built for deep diving, able to reach depths of up to 200 feet thanks to some amazing adaptations! They’ve got solid bones (one of only a few bird species with this cool claim to fame) to help them move through deep water, and their almost interlocking feathers help keep cool water away from their skin.

Besides their bones and feathers, a loon’s legs are built for deep diving power! They’re positioned further back on their bodies compared to other waterbirds, which is great for diving – but it makes walking out of water a tough task! When they do have to get around on land, they push themselves forward with their legs and shuffle their chests along the ground – if we had to walk like that, we’d probably spend most of our time in the water too!

Life on the water sounds pretty great, but it can also put loons at risk from threats like oil spills and getting tangled in fishing lines.
That’s why we need your support! International Bird Rescue helps care for rescued loons that are injured, oiled, sick, or suffering from starvation, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. International Bird Rescue’s team of expert staff and volunteers treat these loons in teams (since these big and strong birds need two handlers at all times to help keep still!), nursing them back to full health until they can be successfully released back into the wild. With your help, rescued loons can live happy healthy lives for years to come!

Head to the Adoptions Section in the Earth Rangers App or visit the Earth Rangers Shop to get your Common Loon Adoption Kit and make a difference today!

For more information about the Common Loon or to learn more about the International Bird Rescue’s mission, please visit their website at https://www.birdrescue.org/