My loon babies have now become juveniles. As fall is approaching, they are now able to fish for themselves and have the ability to avoid prey. The parents usually leave first for migration with the juveniles sticking around as long as there is open water before leaving.
What's especially interesting is these juveniles are able to feed themselves, in fact I watched them catching their own fish. But the mother was still catching fish and bringing it to them to eat. She may be overprotective but she's definitely a good Loon mom!!
*In the photo below, the juvenile female on the right is enjoying a fish mom just handed to her..jpg)
Little River in the Smokies
1 week ago
11 comments:
The juvies have such a unique coloring that is just as pleasing as the adults.
It is so cool that you got to witness there young lives all summer long!
Great shot!
Loons are my favorite water birds- hands down!!
Thanks for sharing your loons all summer - they are wonderful.
We have so enjoyed your Loon Ranger experiences. Great photos today and yesterday.
Hannibal - Thank you! Next year I am hoping to begin documenting them even earlier - when they start nesting. This loon pair has successfully nested on this lake for the past 9 years I've been told.
Lynne- I'm with you - they are my favorite! Wood Ducks are 2nd.
Birdlady - glad you enjoyed them - I'm sad to see them migrate soon!
NC - thank you for your kind comments! It's nice to get to watch their progress!
What a good mommy. I always love your loon photos.
Ah - the babies are growing up!
What a great catch! I'm always astonished how deep they lie in the water!
Cheers, Klaus
I guess we all are slow to give up 'motherhood' including the loons. Great photo!
Sandy - glad you still like seeing my loons!
Bobbi - I still can't believe how big they are.
KJ - they remind me of submarines on how they surface and descend in the water.
Leedra - thank you!
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