Using Motion Detection Cameras to Monitor Common Loon Nests in the Turtle Flambeau Flowage Scenic Waters Area, 2012

摘要

Throughout 30+ years of Common Loon (Gavia immer) studies in northern Wisconsin researchers have observed nest failures due to a number of causes. Several attempts to identify and quantify causes of nest failure have provided some insights but also raised questions. With current advances in remote camera technology, we hoped to clarify some of these unknowns. In 2012, we selected the Turtle Flambeau Flowage as a study site and conducted a complete population survey. At 21 nests, we placed digital infrared motion detection cameras. Mammalian predators, as expected, contributed to nest failures; however, water level fluctuations may be as important to loon nest success. We discuss the variables that affected Common Loon nest success. As previously reported, loons were tenacious at re-nesting after nest failures, which contributes to their ability to maintain stable populations. Also, we learned camera placement and monitoring techniques that will make this kind of research more successful in the future