Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center

UMESC - Common Loon Migration Study - Background

Loon Study - Background

Common loons often migrate several hundred miles to reach coastal waters during fall migration. Information about this part of the loon's life history is not well known.

The use of satellite telemetry allows biologists to track loon movements through distant migrations and during winter. A transmitter attached to a radiomarked loon periodically sends a signal which is detected by a satellite-based receiver; the data is downloaded to a earth-based receiving station. The data is interpreted by wildlife biologists and other specialists.

Animated image of satellite telemetry


Surgical techniques and handling and care of loons is done under approval of the Animal Care and Use Committee of the Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center and comply with the Animal Welfare Act (Public Law 99-198 and 9 CFR Parts 1, 2, and 3).

Loon study (photo)

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Page Last Modified: April 3, 2018