Blue Wall Weekly: March 27, 2023

It’s spring loon camp! Loon camp, that’s what our intrepid, loon loving volunteers have named our two periods each year of loon research on Jocassee. Winter Loon Camp and Spring Loon Camp. Too sweet, don’t you think. The winds are turning to the south, right on time for spring research into the behaviors and dynamics of spring loon migration, using Lake Jocassee as a significant stop-over lake. Friday, while out with a group of eager Wofford adult learners, we watched 4 loons, one a time mind you, run across the lake and take flight, only to land again some distance away. Not trying to leave just yet, just taking advantage of a strong southerly wind to build wing strength for their coming departure. Also, while on our way uplake, I saw a Horned Grebe in full breeding plumage, a rare treat to be seen just before they depart as well. And Bonaparte’s gulls most everywhere, their heads slowly turning black. Did I mention that? And to all you dedicated, life-listing birders out there, we saw the Pacific loon again on Thursday. So yes, he’s still here.

It’s a great time to be on the water.