The Common Loon of Washington State is uncommon.

Over three summers I have been documenting loon pairs and their chicks on a NE Washington lake from my kayak.

Loon pairs and chicks have decreased by half. 

The high mortality rate from loons ingesting lead tackle partly explains this decline.

Only 13 Washington lakes restrict lead. Anglers have strongly resisted bans.

With the Spokane Audubon Society, I am identifying lakes with loons east of the Cascades, documenting if they have monofilament collection receptacles, and checking for interpretation signage outlining the effects of lead ingestion to wildlife.

My images will contribute to an education campaign encouraging voluntary tackle exchanges.

They could do more. 

Future plans include underwater imagery and a floating blind.