Ask people what they love about the Northwoods and you will get A LOT of different answers, but I will say, Facebook has been blowing up about seeing or hearing their first LOON of the year. The earliest comment Monica saw on Facebook was last week posted by (Mary D) and there has been considerably more.

Some might wonder why so many people are infatuated with loons. Well, I might have a few answers. It could be because it a true sign that summer will soon arrive. Another could be their beautiful black and white plumage with those red eyes. To me, unlike other folks, I love that eerie call and the yodel/hoot echoing across the lake at dusk.

Maybe it’s that distinct call or knowing because loons return to the same lake each year, you’re seeing the same loons you did last spring. It’s special seeing the baby chicks riding on mom and dad’s back for protection and warmth.

Then there are a couple other reasons few might not think about. There is no question that I agree with everything written above, but here are some views I believe you might not think of. Loons returning to the same lakes also means those waters are clean and have a strong fish population. How about respecting them because we know the difficult challenges (especially this year) they face during migration.

Whatever the reason for this loon obsession, I’m so glad they are returning even though Monica or I haven’t seen or heard a loon yet and can’t wait to see them swimming on Mamie Infront of the bait shop and on the rest of the Cisco Chain.