Tweeters;

We are very disappointed to report that the Yocum Lake (Pend Oreille County) territorial pair of common loons and a chick were suspected as being shot. Because both territorial adults were removed or shot, there is no longer established site fidelity to this location as a nesting territory. Moreover, there are few replacement adults available due to low survival and return of juveniles to the natal lake regions. Consequently, this incident may result in Yocum Lake becoming vacant as a common loon nesting territory for some time or even permanently.

Yocum Lake was recently declared "non-combustable motors only." This is being considered a possible motive for this despicable, malicious act.

The common loon was listed in 2000 as a "Sensitive" species in Washington. In 2008, there were only 13 established nesting pairs producing young in the state. Washington also has the lowest number of nesting common loons of all states with loon populations in the U.S. Recommendations have been made by the Loon Lake Loon Association to increase the protection status of the common loon in Washington. Other states with more territorial pairs than Washington have listed their common loon population as "Threatened" or "Endangered."

The common loon has become an important "indicator species" for understanding the environmental quality and health of mercury contamination in our aquatic systems and environment. They are a charismatic species and need protection for continued breeding in Washington State.

A "Reward" is being posted for $1,000.00 for any information regarding this incident that leads to prosecution of individual/s involved in this case. Also a fund is being set-up for additional monies to be added if anyone wants to donate to this cause. The money could be sent to Loon Lake Loon Association, Box 75, Loon Lake, WA 99148. A number to call for the Poaching Hotline is: 877-933-9847

Ginger Gumm and Daniel Poleschook, Jr.
Washington Common Loon Conservation
Loon Lake Loon Association
ggloon at msn.com<mailto:ggloon at msn.com>