Today we had the rare treat of seeing a snowy owl in Seattle! David got a “rare bird alert” via the ebird email list informing him that a snowy owl had been sighted in the Queen Anne neighborhood. He actually saw the same bird on Thanksgiving when he got a similar alert and went looking for it then. When we spotted it today, it was sitting on the roof of the house next door to where David saw it previously. It was nestled against the chimney, and we think it was staying warm using heat coming up from the fire the household had in their fireplace.
There were a handful of other folks observing the owl in the alley behind the house. Someone kindly showed us a spot with a good view and moved away so we could check it out. Thanks, kind stranger!
We also noticed a poster written by a local resident and Audobon society member informing the Snowy Owl’s fans of potential risk to the owl due to rodenticide use in the area. The owl is being monitored for signs of rodenticide poisoning in order to provide treatment, if necessary. So far, so good.
We feel very fortunate to have seen this beautiful bird!
The Big Year 2021 