Snowy Owl Invasion
Outdoor Ontario

Snowy Owl Invasion

Rob'in'To · 24 · 5239
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Rob'in'To

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on: February 21, 2012, 03:44:04 PM
So, as most are aware, we've had quite the invasion of Snowy Owls this winter.  Has anyone been out enjoying them?

I've seen 11 different ones since December.  9 barred Snowys (female or juvi) and 2 adult males.

Pretty good to see considering a lot of other stuff is quite lacking this winter.
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Trillian Flummox

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Reply #1 on: February 21, 2012, 04:19:28 PM
Yes I've seen two individuals this winter - both large females I think. A thrill for me and also very exciting for my young son. Seeing such a majestic creature in the wild is very inspiring for kids; and I think will go a long way towards encouraging him to continue his interest in birding. Does anyone know how much longer they are likely to linger here?
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newfoundlander61

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Reply #2 on: February 21, 2012, 04:23:54 PM
We have a dozen or so between Amherst and Wolfe Islands.
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thouc

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Reply #3 on: February 21, 2012, 05:47:51 PM
I have seen zero :(

Tried for them a few times, but so far no success.
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Trillian Flummox

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Reply #4 on: February 21, 2012, 09:07:34 PM
There are two residents at Bronte Harbour in Oakville, one of which should be easy to find since it seems to enjoy the empty boat docks. I think it's safe to post the location of this owl because she seems so safe where she sits on the docks - there is no access onto any of the docks during winter for people or dogs (this information has also been previously posted by others on the OntBird twitter feed). Go to the east side of the harbour where the main pier and the breakwater are located. There's a nice big parking lot in front of what looks like the yacht club (large yellow building). She was easy to find yesterday (on "C" dock), and I laughed when I went back to my car later and realized that I could actually see her while sitting in my car!! The other one supposedly prefers the large breakwater, but I missed it. Bronte Harbour is easily reached at the bottom of Hwy 25.
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Rob'in'To

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Reply #5 on: February 22, 2012, 10:26:02 AM
I saw the one who enjoys the breakwater area.  This second one is new to me.  I might have to scope him/her out.

Ya, they are pretty safe in those spots on the docks since they are all locked up.  So no worry making mention of this location.   :)
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thouc

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Reply #6 on: February 25, 2012, 04:41:55 PM
Thanks Trillian, I was at Bronte today and spotted the Snowy Owl on the docks, my first this season and second for ever!  :D

Unfortunately the wind caught my spotting scope that tipped. The optics survived, but the mounting bracket broke off, so a lot of glue and/or duct tape will be necessary to make it usable again  :(
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Trillian Flummox

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Reply #7 on: February 25, 2012, 10:11:35 PM
That's a shame about your equipment, but glad you found your snowy! If you haven't already seen them, check out the photos of the same owl eating her lunch - "Rob'in'To" has posted some great shots in the "Bird Photo Corner" forum.
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thouc

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Reply #8 on: February 26, 2012, 12:58:59 AM
Yeah, I have seen those. They were really cool pictures. The Snowy wasn't as active today, just sitting on the dock, turning it's head once in a while.
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lovemypt

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Reply #9 on: February 26, 2012, 12:08:56 PM
I was out to the spot early this morning, Sunday but no snowys around at this time..... :(
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Rob'in'To

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Reply #10 on: February 26, 2012, 07:17:17 PM
Sorry for the accident there "thouc".  

Thanks for the compliments regarding my photo post Trillian.
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Axeman

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Reply #11 on: March 04, 2012, 10:43:02 PM
I haven't seen any. Ever. Except on T.V.

In fact I haven't seen much in the way of raptors this winter although a couple of weeks ago, during a warm spell, I thought I saw a turkey vulture soaring....large soaring bird dark wings...but didn't have the same under pattern as a TV.
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lovemypt

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Reply #12 on: March 05, 2012, 08:55:50 AM
Quote from: "Axeman"
I haven't seen any. Ever. Except on T.V.

In fact I haven't seen much in the way of raptors this winter although a couple of weeks ago, during a warm spell, I thought I saw a turkey vulture soaring....large soaring bird dark wings...but didn't have the same under pattern as a TV.


Re" Snowys

Probably getting to end of season for them, not sure how long they will be staying if we get the warm weather they are predicting for later this week. There is one at Bronte marina almost daily and probably best and easiest spot to still find one. Its spot on the docks seems to change slightly with day and need a big lens for super closeup but still can be seen with eye and binoculars really make viewing good...for anyone still wanting to catch one this year.

Taken yesterday at Bronte


Dave
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Rob'in'To

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Reply #13 on: March 06, 2012, 11:22:58 AM
Same Snowy Owl the day after Dave's view/photo of her...

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mr.sharp-photo

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Reply #14 on: March 09, 2012, 06:18:18 AM
saw someone posting pictures of a snowy in Scarborough.
i assumed that a snowy would be at Bluffer's Park this winter but never bothered to look. anyone know where the scarborough snowy is?
not going to go and look at it - just curious.
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