The Owlet Mall and more : November 2015

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Snowy Owls Are At It Again

In the last few years we have seen an usual number of snowy owls migrating south, and further south than usual, too. One was even spotted in Bermuda last year. This year, biologists are surprised to see that the migration, or irruption as its called, has already started. Irruptions usually start in mid November, but, this year a number of snowy owls have been spotted in the Great Lakes in mid October. They don't expect the numbers to increase again this year, but who knows? After all, these beautiful white birds have been unpredictable lately.

Sadly, it is said that when an irruption starts earlier than usual, it's because their Arctic food supply has become scarce, and that the migrating birds are in worse psychical shape than normal. Hopefully, they will find more food during the migration which will fatten them up and give them more energy to go on. Still, it is expected that many wildlife conservation facilities will be very busy with injured or starving snowy owls this year.

Some of us will have the opportunity this year to enjoy their presence, but, keep in mind that getting too close to these birds can pose a threat to them. Enjoy them at a distance, perhaps through a long lens camera or binoculars.