Looking for loons? Birds are making a stop in Utah

Utah is currently playing host to a bunch of loons.

Twice a year, the birds pass through Utah.

In the spring they migrate from the south to breeding areas in Canada and the northern edge of the United States. During the fall, they return to the warmer waters in the south.

Most of the loons that visit Utah are common loons, but occasionally other loon species are also seen.

Loons are usually found on larger lakes and reservoirs where they stop, rest and feed before continuing on their journey.

Loons have a difficult time walking on land but are well adapted to swimming, diving and foraging for food on or under the water. One study found loons feeding roughly 200 feet below the surface of the water. Most of their dives are much shallower, however, usually 20 feet or less.

While noted for their fish-catching abilities, loons also forage on a wide variety of crayfish, shrimp, amphibians and other aquatic species. Observers in northeastern Utah say the loons have been feeding almost exclusively on crayfish this spring.

While their numbers in Utah usually peak in April, they can usually be seen well into May.

Lucky bird-watchers are able to hear their lonesome call and see them perform their mating dances.

"We've had a great year so far for viewing common loons," said Ron Stewart, conservation outreach manager for the Division of Wildlife Resources. "We've seen them in fairly good numbers at all of our open reservoirs, including Pelican, Brough, Red Fleet, Steinaker, Starvation and Flaming Gorge. Other biologists have reported them in Yuba and other waters."

For more information, call 435-781-9453.