Photo by George Seiffert
Common Loon
The Common Loon is perhaps best known for its distinctive calls, which scientists have classified into 4 types – yodels, hoots, tremolos and wails – each with different purposes. Found throughout the northern reaches of North America, with their distinctive black-and-white pattern in the summer months, they return to a plain gray and white as they migrate toward more southerly coastal regions for winter. While they nest on land and have been known to fly up to 70 mph, their bodies are made for the water. Expert divers, they are often seen dipping under the surface of lakes to chase fish, which they catch with the help of sharp hooks in their mouth and usually swallow whole. They prefer larger lakes to smaller ponds as they need between 30 yds and a ¼ mile of watery runway to take flight.
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What do you love about this particular creature?
What do they reveal to you about God and our faith?
When we think of birds, we often think of their adaptations for flight. While the loon can fly, it has heavier bones than the average bird, a body shape adapted to swimming, and other adaptations for the water. Those make it awkward for the loon to walk on land and affect when and how it flies. The loon isn’t good at everything, but it has found a way to bloom where it’s planted and make itself well-known in its own context.
Their calls and their presence often delight those lucky enough to see or hear them. Perhaps we, too, might more deeply revel in one another’s special and unique gifts and adaptations, recognizing that none of us thrives in every setting. Sometimes our call is to listen for God’s distinctive call, leading us to find our own niche to share our gifts and thrive.
Author - The Rev. Steven Wilco
The Rev. Steven Wilco is Canon for Discipleship and Vocation in the Diocese of Western Massachusetts. He lives near the convergence of the Chicopee and Connecticut Rivers.
Holy One, your call to us is as distinct as the loon. Open our hearts to hear your invitation to thrive where you have placed us, and to delight the unique gifts of those around us. Amen.