Have you ever heard the expression “crazy as a loon”? These days I am starting to feel like I am going crazy while working from home and social distancing. I can no longer explore new areas around Lake James so I am focusing on what is right in front of me and what I am currently seeing (and hearing!) are loons. The common loon to be exact. These stealthy waterbirds are all over Lake James right now and I love watching them dive down without making a splash and congregate in large groups (picture above) calling out to each other in the evenings. In the early evening around 6pm, strange sounds that remind me of puppies yipping echo around the coves of the lake. It’s one of the oddest sounds I have ever heard from a bird and some sites say their cry is where the expression “crazy as a loon” came from. Other sites claim it’s from their awkward, clumsy attempts to walk on land. Loons are water birds and come ashore only to nest so they are not well equipped for strutting around. They are, however, very well equipped for diving and swimming and propel themselves underwater with their feet to catch fish. Loons are also very fast flyers and have been clocked at 70mph! They need a “runway” to run across the top of the water and takeoff for flight so they prefer larger lakes like Lake James. However they are only temporary visitors this time of year on their way back to summer on lakes in the Northern US and Canada where they nest and breed. They usually lay 2 eggs yearly and are monogamous birds that stay with their mate for around 5 years. One of the most interesting things I researched is that the loon chicks ride on their parents back until they can swim on their own. I would love to see that!
The loons on Lake James are an excellent sign for the lake and for the population of loons. They indicate exceptional water quality as they need a clear lake to see fish and there must be abundant populations of small fish for them to eat. This is good news for all the fishermen of Lake James! They also often return to the same lake each year, which is good news for me since I enjoy the sights and sounds they bring to the lake.
I don’t think loons are looney at all. I think they are cool and unique birds with their black and white coloration and red eyes and I wish I could get close enough to snap a good picture before they dive underwater!
Rachel Stark is a multimillion-dollar top producing real estate professional & REALTOR, who is known for her high standards of professionalism and dedication to client satisfaction. Rachel has an extensive market knowledge of the Lake James, Marion and Morganton areas. Call Rachel Stark at (828) 329-3552 for a free consultation, if you are interested in buying or selling real estate near Lake James, NC.