A unique visitor will be making a stop in the Basin this spring, just like
it does every spring. The common loon, known for its haunting voice
migrates through Utah every spring on its way north and every fall on its
way back to coastal destinations. “Common loon calls are often what you
think of while watching a movie set in the northern territories of Canada,”
shares DWR outreach manager Tonya Kieffer. “They have a wailing, yodel-like
call that echoes in the wilderness.” Loons are most at home on or under the
water and can be spotted on many northeastern Utah waters during their
migration, including Steinaker Reservoir where the annual Loon Watch takes
place. “They’re superb swimmers with torpedo-like bodies that are designed
to catch fish,” says Kieffer. “Due to the placement of their feet, they
can’t walk well, so they only use land during their nesting season…Folks
in the Basin don’t have to travel far to watch these birds. With their bold
black-and-white appearance, they’re a beautiful bird to watch.” The Loon
Watch will take place April 21st from 9am to noon at Steinaker State Park.
