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Minnesota wildlife
Common loon
Gavia immer
Minnesota's state bird; its call carries across the north woods lakes.
Best months
May · Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep
Typical viewing is from a canoe or quiet boat on a calm lake at dawn or dusk during late spring and early summer; check the refuge or park report for current loon locations.
Where to look
Voyageurs National ParkBoundary Waters Canoe Area WildernessSuperior National Forest
Conservation status
Nests on northern lakes; its call defines the north
Good to know
What is the best month to see common loons in Minnesota?
June and July are typical months when loons are actively nesting and calling on northern lakes.
Are common loons dangerous to people?
No, common loons are not dangerous to people, though they may defend their nests by diving or calling if approached too closely.
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