Annual Loon Census

The New York Annual Loon Census is held on the 3rd Saturday of July each year from 8:00-9:00 am to provide an annual “snapshot” of the breeding loon population in the state. Results of the census over time provide valuable information regarding the status and trends in New York’s summer loon population. The census was initiated in 2001, and has been held annually since then.

RLPF provides coordination for the Loon Census volunteers on Raquette Lake. Watch for the spring RLPF newsletter for information on how to participate. Below are the Census results for past years:

YEAR	ADULTS	CHICKS
2021	17	2
2020	17	3
2019	16	2
2018	16	2
2017	20	2
2016	19	2
2015	14	2
2014	20	3
2013	22	5
2012	12	0
2011	12	0
2010	12	2

People all across New York are invited to participate in the census, and submit their observations from any lake in New York. Observations are conducted from a boat, canoe, or kayak to help enable volunteers to observe larger areas of the lake. Binoculars also help and enhance your experience. You can sign up and find out more information on the census and on the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation at adkloon.org.