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Common loons are often seen nesting on large freshwater lakes where their loud calls echo over the water like familiar summer music instilling a sense of peacefulness and simplicity. Their presence represents true wilderness. Sadly, the degradation of freshwater ecosystems has affected the loon populations and their breeding success. Increased lake acidity, mercury concentrations in fish, lead poisoning from ingestion of lead sinkers and unattended or abandoned fish hooks and line have been contributing factors to their decline.
I featured Spatterdock, also known as yellow water lilies. The fruits are eaten by waterfowl and the roots, which are edible, provide habitat for fish. There are also two damselflies in the reeds on the left. Their larvae have been used to assess the health of aquatic habitats. Dragonfly larvae live underwater for years. Mercury builds up inside the larvae and can give scientists insight into the health of the water they live in. Awareness and education are important to restoring our waterways and ecosystems for younger generations to enjoy.
