Call of the Banshee?

  For the past four years, we have had a lone Common Loon visit the Bayou. At the first of the season, a dozen or so loons migrate here but most move on to other parts.  One stays.  He swims about in his winter plumage during the colder months.  This is of a nondescript buff-colored gray.  His calls are hauntingly beautiful but give me the idea that he is lonely.  I never hear another answering.  After the weather starts to warm, the plumage changes almost immediately to the breeding colors and my friend basks in all his splendor.  His head is almost black ending with a white streaked neckband.  His back is black with white polka-dots and the underparts are white.  The bird's bright red eye is like a ruby that completes his stunning outfit. He is absolutely gorgeous!  It always pleases me to find the loon near the pier.  

  I know it is about time for my friend to take flight to wherever he goes for the summer months.  I will miss his eerie wails in the night.  (Those calls do make for some interesting tall tales!  I have fully convinced some folks that the wails and "laughter" are coming from a banshee!) I will miss seeing him dive silently for fish and preen in the sunshine. His home-away-from-home will always welcome his arrival come next October.  Fly safe, my friend, fly safe and have a happy summer!