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Loons 159

enough, it is important to get the chick on water as soon as possible to prevent pressure sores.
Housing for loon chicks must change as they grow and become more waterproofed.

All Ages

All chicks should be placed into a brooder box with a shallow pool once admitted (Figure 9.4).
Shallow water reduces the chance of accidental drownings and allows the bird to stabilize if
needed. After 24–48 hours, if the chick is healthy, bright, alert, and responsive, it can be moved to
a small or large pool depending on maturity. The depth of the pool will depend on age and

4000
3500 Females
3000 Males
Body weight (g) 2000
2500

1500
1000
500

0
0 3 6 9
12 15 18 21 24 27 32 37 42 47 52 57 62 67 72 77 82 87 92 97 102
Days of age
Figure 9.3 The average weight gain of 18 female and 14 male Common Loon chicks. Source: data courtesy
of Kevin Kenow.

Figure 9.4 Wet brooder box with well-padded haul-out area, heat lamp, and clean water in which to offer
live fish.