Project Lakewell Inc.

09/19/2026

Happy Loon Fact Friday!

During the breeding season loons show territorial behaviors. Pairs defend their territories and may even fight to the death to protect their nesting area and chicks. But later in the summer, as the breeding season comes to an end, their behavior can start to look very different.

By mid to late summer loons begin showing more social behaviors. Loons that don’t have a territory of their own or that were unsuccessful at nesting or raising chicks may become more tolerant of each other and spend more time together.
As migration gets closer, Adirondack loons often spend more time with other loons. At first, small groups of 3 to 5 loons may gather to feed and socialize. As fall gets closer these groups can become much larger. Sometimes they can include 20 or more loons! Loons may form a loose circle and take turns making quick and shallow dives. You may also hear lots of small hoots back and forth between them. This behavior may help loons work together to find food and build up energy before migration.

To learn more go to adkloon.org

Photo by Izzie McGinley Myers

09/19/2026

Cedar is Recovery Medicine

One of the Sacred Medicines, it is used to purify.

Taking cedar baths and washing with cedar water brings healing to body and Spirit. You can smudge with cedar to cleanse the air and create a sacred space. (Remember to open windows. You don't just want to chase bad spirits around the house as they try to get away but can't escape, do you? 🤣)

When you burn cedar in smudge or sacred fire, and the cedar crackles, we believe it is calling the attention of the Spirits to the offering you are making. Cedar is also used in other ceremony, such as fasting and sweat lodge, as protection from negative influences that could bring harm.

The scent of cedar gently relaxes the body. It cleanses the mind of angry and aggressive thoughts. Cedar will ground you, like its roots that connect it to Our Mother, and connect you to the Earth Wisdom of the Ancestors. Cedar's healing gift to the People is strength and courage.

09/19/2026