Parks Canada is asking visitors to Banff National Park to keep their distance from loons this spring, especially at Vermilion and Johnson Lakes. An advisory issued May 27, 2026, urges people to stay at least 30 metres away—about the length of three buses—from the iconic birds during their sensitive nesting season. Human activity can disturb and displace both adult loons and their chicks, said the Parks Canada advisory.
Common Loons are now in the peak of their breeding period, typically laying eggs from late May through June. They are easily pushed off their nests by approaching people or boats, leaving eggs exposed to predators. “Disturbance of loon nesting areas by humans can cause annual nest failures and consequently affect long-term” population health, according to Hinterland Who’s Who.
The 30-metre buffer gives the birds space to feel secure. Loons need a long stretch of water to take off, and they are heavy and slow to get airborne. Getting too close can cause them to abandon their nest entirely. Parks Canada reminds everyone that it is illegal to feed, entice, or disturb any wildlife in the park, with violators facing fines up to $25,000 and a mandatory court appearance.
Anyone who sees loons being harassed or has concerns can call Banff Park Emergency Dispatch at 403-762-1470. The advisory is part of annual efforts to protect nesting birds and other wildlife during the busy spring season.
