I was introduced to Grafton Pond in New Hampshire in the summer of 2003. This gorgeous, pristine pond affords an incredible opportunity for wildlife photography. Since it is home to two pairs of nesting loons, it is my favorite place to take photos of loons. For the past two summers they have returned to the pond as soon as the ice goes out, spending the intial weeks after their return becoming re-acquainted with their mates. They have produced two chicks each summer, and it is such a pleasure to observe the adults protecting and rearing these tiny creatures. They are an example of stellar parenting as both adults take responsibility for tending to the nest and the eggs and subsequently for the protection, feeding and instruction of the chicks. Loons are exceptionally awkward on land, as their legs are positioned very much to the rear of their torso. The chicks enter the water only hours after birth, as soon as their feathers dry. They remain in the water for the rest of the summer, until they depart the pond for their fall migration. Photographing loons requires lots of patience, a smattering of luck and stealth handling of the kayak!