Release and Monitoring

Chicks are reared for various lengths of time depending on age and how well they acclimate to the pen. Prior to release to the wild, chicks are given a full health assessment, and banded with a unique color and number combination. 

 

Once released, chicks adapt quickly, foraging on their own almost immediately. BRI biologists monitor the chicks daily when first released, then weekly until they fledge.

Making sure the chicks are healthy and well fed before releasing them. A wildlife veterinarian is on staff. 

Closely monitoring is critical to be sure of the chick's health, but to learn more about loon ecology.

 

Loon chicks acclimate quickly to the wild.