Tracking migrations of yellow-billed loons (Gavia adamsii) from the Canadian arctic.

Abstract

Because the population of yellow-billed loons (Gavia adamsii) is declining, satellite telemetry was used to learn more about the needs of this species and the interdependencies of various populations that breed in isolated regions. In July 2013, the author accompanied a team of biologists to Victoria Island in the Canadian Arctic to surgically implant satellite transmitters in 14 yellow-billed loons. This article chronicles the trip with the objective of connecting the reader with the loons and the interesting people that strive to conserve them.