Many visitors and residents associate a great Northwoods experience with the haunting call of the common loon. The loon is an icon and a sentinel species - a living symbol of clean water, good fisheries, and an indicator of healthy aquatic ecosystems. For those of us lucky enough to live on a northern lake, the common loon family captivates our hearts as we watch them develop from chick to adult in 12 short weeks. Since 1978, LoonWatch has been protecting common loons and their aquatic habitats through education, monitoring, and research. Learn about the common loon - their calls, ecology, behavior, habitat, threats, and other fascinating loon facts. And as stewards who enjoy the silent water sports, learn what you can do to protect loons while enjoying these remarkably beautiful pristine lakes.