A Magical Encounter: Witnessing 12 Loons on the Lake

Last week, we were treated to an unforgettable gift from nature - a gathering of 12 common loons gliding across the still waters of a mountain lake. For us, seeing even one loon feels like a special moment. But a dozen? It was nothing short of breathtaking.

We first spotted 2 loons which is often a common sight here at Fish Lake. But as Stan focused to photograph them I saw one more enter the scene ... then another ... and another ... until there were 12 in all! In all the years we have been coming here this is the first time we had ever seen so many loons at once, which led us to believe they must be migrating to the western coast.   

Their sleek black-and-white plumage stood out across the still waters, and the air soon filled with the eerie beauty of their calls. We were in awe as we watched them for about 15 minutes as they circled amongst each other often diving for fish but always returning to the group. Then one by one they flew off into the sky, calling back to those remaining on the water, as a beacon letting them know the way they were headed. 

The Haunting Wail of the Loon

The highlight of the experience wasn’t just the sight, but the sound. As the loons called out, their distinct wailing song echoed across the water. Scientists describe this wail as a long, haunting note that serves as a way for loons to keep in contact with one another across distances. To anyone who has spent time in the Canadian wilderness, that sound instantly evokes the wild’s raw beauty and solitude. Turn up your volume to hear their call on the video we captured below.

Their calls aren’t random—loons actually have four different types of vocalizations:

• The Wail – A long, mournful call used to find or reassure mates.

• The Tremolo – A wavering sound, often described as “crazy laughter,” used when loons are alarmed.

• The Yodel – A long, complex call only males make, often as a territorial warning.

• The Hoot – A short, soft call for close communication with chicks or mates.

Each note carries across lakes like a musical thread woven into the fabric of wilderness life.

Fascinating Facts About Loons

Spending time with this group of 12 sparked our curiosity, so we dove into some fun loon facts:

• Expert Divers: Loons are incredible underwater hunters. They can dive up to 200 feet and stay submerged for over a minute while chasing fish. To realign their feathers after diving they often do the "penguin dance" by rearing up in the water flapping their wings.

• Built for Water, Not Land: Their legs are set far back on their bodies, making them powerful swimmers but awkward on land. This is why they need a long “runway” of water to take flight.

• True Wilderness Symbol: Loons are often seen as a symbol of pristine lakes and wild spaces. Their presence is a sign of healthy ecosystems.

• Long Lives: Some loons live for 20–30 years, returning to the same lakes year after year to breed, often having 2 chicks or loonlets. 

The Symbolism of Loons in the Wilderness

In many cultures, loons symbolize wilderness, solitude, and the spirit of wild places. Their haunting calls have inspired legends, poetry, and even music. In Indigenous storytelling, loons are often seen as messengers between the physical and spiritual worlds, embodying mystery and resilience.

For us, seeing 12 loons felt like a reminder of how deeply interconnected nature is. Each bird, each call, seemed to echo a message: slow down, listen, and honour the wild.

Why Loons Matter

Loons are more than beautiful birds—they’re indicators of environmental health. Because they rely on clear, fish-filled lakes, their presence tells us the ecosystem is thriving. Sadly, they are vulnerable to threats such as pollution, lead fishing tackle, and climate change. Protecting them means protecting the very lakes and wilderness that bring us peace.

A Moment to Treasure

As the morning sun stayed hidden by the overcast of clouds, the calls of the loons echoed across the lake, leaving us with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Nature doesn’t just entertain us - it heals us, teaches us, and grounds us. Witnessing those 12 loons together will remain one of our most cherished wildlife memories. After all, this is the same lake that my late husband Dave's ashes were scattered at, as it was his favourite place to fish. Truly a sign from above.

If you ever find yourself near a northern lake at dawn or dusk, pause. Listen closely. If you’re lucky, you’ll hear that haunting loon wail - a sound that connects us all to the heart of the wilderness.