In the past it seems to us that nearly all Boreal Owls that were seen by birders were at feeders that probably were attracting mice, voles, etc under them. As the birds were struggling to find food in the snow this was easy pickings. We also remember reports of dead birds found next to foundations where we presume that the birds were also looking for small mammal activity.
With no snow to speak of in Minnesota there is nothing to drive the birds to the feeders. We know that several banders have been successful in banding owls that are probably attracted by a tape but we really wonder if it is really a record year for Boreal Owls. That is probably yet to be seen as we have seen no definitive reports, only presumptions. Dennis and Barbara Martin [email protected]
