Walking along a mountain trail in the Cascade Mountains near Seattle, Washington, we were startled by a loud, strange laugh nearby. Puzzled, we went on walking and soon heard it again. To find out what was going on, we left the trail and soon came to a small lake. There on the surface we saw two large birds with black heads, white breasts and beautiful speckled black-and-white wings. Our wondering about the weird calls we had heard was soon answered when one of the birds opened its long, sharp beak, raised its head and gave out a loud laugh-like cry. And so we were introduced to the common loon.
The birds spotted us and took off, kicking the water vigorously with their webbed feet, soon rising above it with spray spattering all around. Necks outstretched and wings flapping rapidly, they were soon out of sight. This beautiful display made us decide to learn more about them as soon as possible.
We learned that great numbers make their homes on small, lonely lakes across the northern United States and into Canada and some seacoast areas. When on land they seem awkward, for the Creator designed them for the water where they are excellent swimmers, both on the surface and underwater. They swim faster than most fish, which form their principal food supply. They have wonderful vision and before diving submerge their heads, turning them from side to side to locate prey. Then with a quick dive and underwater swim they make their catch.
Loons are from two to three feet long with a wing span of about five feet and weigh from 10 to 14 pounds. Their life span is about 30 years. In April they incubate just two eggs for about a month. The newborn hatchlings are as cute as can be, with coal-black soft down. Soon they are swimming with the parents, sometimes riding piggyback on mom and dad who care for them for about three months.
Groups of adult loons often join in choruses of hoots, screams and yodeling. The weird-sounding result is where the expressions "crazy as a loon" and "loony" came from. Actually, they are among the world's outstanding birds and seem to act very intelligently. Coming across them at the mountain lake was an experience we have never forgotten.
Loons are another example of the wonders of God's creation and are included in His words: "I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are Mine" (Psa. 50:1111I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine. (Psalm 50:11)). Another Psalm tells us, "The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works" (Psa. 145:99The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. (Psalm 145:9)). This is specifically true of every boy and girl, man and woman on earth. Have you thanked Him for His love and care for you?