Loon Family 001

A few years back I came across this very friendly loon. This particular loon was so friendly it would come up to my kayak and even dive under it catching minnows. That year was one of the most enjoyable times I have had photographing a family of loons.

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Loon Family 002

The loon family built their nest on a small island off the Gunflint Trail. When the eggs were getting close to hatching I spent six days at the nest.

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Loon Family 003

On the sixth day, early in the morning the loon stood up and still had two eggs.

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One hour later it stood up and one egg had hatched.

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Loon Family 005

An hour later the second baby hatched and was sticking its head out from under the wing.

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Loon Family 006

Mom, I am hungry.

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Loon Family 007

Here one of the chicks is by mom’s neck sticking its head out from under the top of the wing.

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Loon Family 008

Soon it’s under the front of the wing getting ready to explore the world.

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The baby tumbles out.

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The hours old baby rolled down the hill and I think if not for that stick that caught him it would have rolled right into the water.

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Mom is getting ready to take them off the nest and into the water.

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Loon Family 012

About seven hours after hatching they were riding on the parents back.

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Loon Family 013

The next morning, I made one last trip to see the loon family. One baby was under the wing and one riding on top. As I said goodbye they were getting well feed by their parents. I was very thankful for another outdoor adventure where I could witness wildlife in their own habitat.

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