On Sunday Raina and I got stuck mediating a debate of our own…between two Barred Owls. It was quite a raucous, nobody could figure out who was cooking for who. Both owls were pretty adamant they were “cooking for all.” It was just a chaotic seen (actually both owls were pleasantly calm for barreds)!
Barred owl feet Long-eared owl
The weather started to show the first signs of fall temperatures on Sunday dipping down to 1.8C (35 Fahrenheit) at 10:00 PM, before the winds switched back to the south and the temperature went up to 8.0C (46F) by 4:00 AM. Sunday was our first night without the chatter from the peepers and the buzzing of mosquitoes. By Monday both have returned. Overall the weather has been unkind to our netting efforts lately and looks like it will continue to do so for the next few days.
When we have been able to operate the station we have had a nice diversity of species lately. Catching at least 3 different species on two different nights since we last reported. Including 3 Long-eared owls on the 9th.
Species Totals:
Northern saw-whets – 157
Barred – 8
Long-eared – 9
Non-owl observations- We had our best look of the season at an Ermine (Short-tailed weasel) on the 9th. Blue spotted salamanders, American toads, spring peepers continue to be abundant.
The forecast looks to be pretty unfavorable for netting until at least Sunday night. Once the rain passes on Wednesday we are in for a few windy nights that could limit our ability to open. If you are planning a trip to the banding station, I recommend checking the weather before making your journey. Be aware of windy conditions,even if there is no rain we do not open our nets if it is too windy out.
Also worth a mention is the upcoming Orionid meteor shower which is set to peak on the 21st. There should be some activity leading up to and after the peak night.
Raina and Keegan
Ermine eye shine Spring (or fall) peeper
