On 95-12-21, Eric Greenwood wrote:

>I can confirm the earlier post regarding a Saw-whet Owl in a Christmas tree
>that came from Oregon. This seems to be part of a bigger picture of a
>scheme to save our lumber and to increase our bird population by importing
>Christmas trees.
>
>One tree set up in Surrey yielded a Saw-whet that was able to leave (through
>an open window I hope) under its own power. A second tree in North
>Vancouver had a Saw-whet that was emancipated but that is now recovering at
>a rescue centre.
>
>These two incidents have prompted the local media to post messages asking
>that the birds not be kept as pets.
>
>

Incredible!! Why spend all year combing the vast wilds when it could be
right there in your living room and an easy 'tick' for the ole yard list.

Richard A. Rowlett <pagodroma at aol.com>
Bellevue, WA, USA