Peder Svingen has asked me to post some other suggestions for Owl viewing behavior and etiquette in addition to the ones I offered earlier. Please consider these as guidelines. I believe if you take any action with the benefit of the Owl in mind, you will be doing the right thing. * When an owl is sighted while driving, stop 75 feet or more away from a bird and turn off the engine. Avoid disturbing the bird as it feeds by being closer than that * If the bird is looking at you it is not paying attention to hunting, leave it alone so it has a chance to feed. * Do not post a Boreal Owl sighting on the Mnbird or MOU-net. I am not sure all the birding pressure directed at a single bird will be a survivable incident. Please report it directly to the MOU rare bird alert and, if possible to Steve Wilson, who specializes in this species. Looking to discover the birds yourself may be challenging, but may reduce the pressure on an individual bird. * Start looking for the dead birds as well as the live birds. Look for the wing tips peeking out of the snow, not a pleasant task , yet it is important to know if starvation is setting in. We will have to check out the dead birds to determine their conditions. * Stick to the uninhabited areas or to feeder homes where you know you are welcome.=20 * Do not drive less than 45 mph when on the main roads, if you have to stop, pull off where there is a place to do so. Walk to a better viewing area. * Use a scope when a closer proximity is not available * Go out of your way to be friendly. Wave and smile at all passing motorists.=20 * If you have to stop and see birds at someone's home, please go knock and talk with the person first, this may flush the birds, but it is more important for you to gain permission than to see the birds.=20 * Carry calling cards or business cards to give to people you meet or to leave at local businesses. * Show respect to EVERY ONE. Trappers and people with aggressive trespassing signs should all be able to go on with their normal lives without us disrupting them in any way. Good Birding!
Mark Alt MOU president
