PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • January 4, 2025
Yes, Snowy Owls are coming south! This is always exciting for birders and owl aficionados as we get an opportunity to see one of the most charismatic and endearing animals. We typically only see them following a year of high reproductive success in the Arctic, where they nest. When there is too much competition often the young birds will wander south in search of food. The fun word associated with these types of movements is called an irruption. if your presence is changing the animal’s behavior in any way, you are too close. The first sign will be the owl looking your way. If an owl turns its head to look at you or in your direction, or if you have made eye contact, then that is your sign to start backing up. Don’t flush a bird just so you can get a photo of it flying! ~ Doug Hitchcock, Maine Audubon