The problem of posting owl and raptor locations is not new in the birding
community. I started birding when I lived on Eastern Long Island, N.Y.. As a
new young, enthusiastic birder I spent untold hours cruising Dune Rd. and other
beach locations searching for Snowy and Saw-whet Owls. I was lucky enough to
find a Saw-whet in some cedars near Jones Beach. I immediately notified members
of my Audubon group(Moriches Bay). Since this took place in the pre internet
days(early 80's) I called the local RBA and gave directions to the bird. I had
no reservations about doing this since I had used this source to observe many
staked out rarities. I went back, with several friends, the following
afternoon. To my amazement someone had decided to drastically prune the tree
that the bird was still roosting in, obviously to facilitate a photo. I
couldn't believe my eyes. Since that day I have always struggled with the
decision to post locations. Ultimately, I decided to continue communicating
with my fellow birders. I have to believe that the people who abuse this info
are the small minority. It is clearly a difficult(and personal) decision but as
I said I had some very memorable experiences using info from RBA's and I feel a
need to return the favor whenever possible. Good Birding to all.
Jim
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