A Long-eared at the Point from back in 2008.
Although the Northern Saw-whet numbers continue to be low, Long-eared Owls have been banded in record numbers this season keeping us very busy lately. The past two weeks have been a whirlwind. In the last 16 nights, we have banded 93 Saw-whets and 189 Long-eared Owls, despite less than ideal weather patterns during this period. The Long-eared total from those 16 nights alone surpasses the previous spring season record of 176 set in 1999. It looks like the numbers may have just started to drop off, but hopefully there will be a few more good nights to come. The season’s total now stands at 193 Saw-whets and an amazing 224 Long-eareds banded. Long-eareds have also been seen almost nightly as they lift-off near the hawk deck.
If you are coming to Spring Fling this weekend and are interested in learning more about our Northern Owls, come to the presentation that we are giving on Saturday morning at 7:30 & 8:15 in the Shipwreck Museum theater.
A couple of Long-eared Owls showing some of the variation in their facial disc color.
The reason our hands have puncture marks.
Chris Neri & Nova Mackentley
