Loon Nest on Kezar

Loon Nesting Platform Project

Recently Lynda volunteered her time to assist with the placement of several platforms for nesting loons on Kezar Lake. Last summer a committee from the Kezar Lake Watershed Association determined that although the adult loon count has remained stable there has been a reduction in chicks each year. 

The scarcity of chicks prompted the committee to place nesting platforms on the water. Nesting platforms are small floating square islands that rise and fall with water levels and are covered to help deter predators from taking eggs or chicks. Since placement of the platforms is critical, the committee, including Lynda, spent time finding locations protected from human disturbance and/or near known nesting sites.

 There are seven platforms on Kezar Lake as well as one on Bradley Pond and one on Horseshoe Pond. If you see a loon using a platform please give it plenty of space.

Sandhill Crane Sighting at Harvest Gold Gallery

Sandhill Crane, Lovell, Maine, photo by Lynda Rasco

Yesterday Lynda and Bill saw the first of the snowbirds return to visit Harvest Gold Gallery when a sandhill crane was spotted behind their gallery. According to an ornithologist friend this species of crane normally prefers a reedy environment, so a sighting in a field is rare. Perhaps this fella is nesting along the nearby Saco River? In any case, it reminded us that nature is often an inspiration for artists in their respective mediums. In honor of Poetry Month we're sharing a poem about sandhill cranes by Mary Austin, as well as images of Harvest Gold Jewelry's inspired by our feathery friends.

The Sand-Hill Crane

WHENEVER the days are cool and clear,

The sand-hill crane goes walking

Across the field by the flashing weir,

Slowly, solemnly stalking.

The little frogs in the tules hear,

And jump for their lives if he comes near;

The fishes scuttle away in fear

When the sand-hill crane goes walking.

The field folk know if he comes that way,

Slowly, solemnly stalking,

There is danger and death in the least delay,

When the sand-hill crane goes walking.

The chipmunks stop in the midst of play;

The gophers hide in their holes away;

And 'Hush, oh, hush!' the field-mice say,

When the sand-hill crane goes walking. 

Mary Austin

Stop by and say Hi when you are passing through beautiful downtown Center Lovell,  overlooking Kezar Lake and the White Mountains.

Can you see it?

The Hummingbird teaches us;

The Impossible is Possible.