OQUOSSOC — Rangeley Region Lake Cruises & Kayaking, in coordination with Maine Audubon and Biodiversity Research Institute, has announced a “Loons from the Lake” program for loon enthusiasts on Saturday, July 18, the same day as the 32nd annual Maine Loon Count. The program will include a cruise on Rangeley Lake followed by an educational program and lunch.

The Maine Loon Project is a program managed by the Maine Audubon. Its primary focus is the annual loon count, research and management as well as education and outreach.

The Biodiversity Research Institute, through its Center for Loon Conservation, has seasonal biologists living in Rangeley. Each summer they conduct a productivity survey of nesting loon pairs on the Rangeley Lakes and surrounding ponds.

The program will start at 8 a.m. with a one-and-a-half hour cruise on Rangeley Lake. Along with a Registered Maine Guide, attendees will be joined by a Maine Audubon or Biodiversity Research Institute biologist as they circumnavigate the lake and conduct the official loon count. While cruising, attendees will observe the loon in its natural habitat, ask the biologists questions and take photographs of the bird.

Upon returning to the dock, those attending will make the short drive to The Gingerbread House restaurant where they will participate in a loon education program from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. presented by the Maine Audubon and the Biodiversity Research Institute. The presentation will conclude with a question-and-answer session followed by a buffet lunch.

The cost for this special program is $65 per person. This will include the cruise, presentation and lunch.

Pre-registration is required no later than 4 p.m. Thursday, July 16. Seating is limited.

FMI: 207-670-8391, [email protected].