I found a loon on the ground and it is unable to fly. Is it injured?
Loons, and many other diving birds can’t fly immediately off of land because their legs are positioned far back on their bodies, making them excellent swimmers but not good for walking or taking off from land. This anatomical adaptation, which aids in efficient swimming and diving, hinders their ability to generate the necessary running start on land for flight.
Sometimes these birds see wet or shiny surfaces, such as wet pavement and they can mistake it for a waterway. They then become stranded.
If you find a loon or a similar species of water bird, please call Le Nichoir 450-458-2809 for more instructions. These birds will require rescuing. Once brought to Le Nichoir an x-ray and other diagnostics will be done to determine if the bird is injured. If the bird is in good health, it will be released.