Tweeters,
First I want to thank Charlie for finding these birds. In my observation Tuesday, around 12 noon I was there for quite a while, they were flying freely, and very approachable, and I question there being more than one nesting pair. I have many of my bird books packed, I am going to Kansas for a month to care for my father-in-law who is terminally ill. So I do hope someone, who knows more than I do; does address the issue of their nesting range, as well as the rarity of these birds; and the need for caution concerning posting exact locations. I had no intention of doing more than personally thanking Charlie for the information that he requested I not post on Tweeters.
It is important that we share information on birds. But we also need to protect them, and tweeters is open for ALL to read. Private answers of where the birds are, can be distributed personally to names you are familiar with, and those you feel will proceed with caution.
I was alone when I went to see the birds. One parent came so close to me, I couldn't believe it, delivering a large rodent to the larger of the owlets. She (or he) didn't even make eye contact, which was quite disappointing to me. I was however able to watch her hunting, and flying around, never giving a moments notice of human intrusion. This is their nature, and makes them vulnerable. But the babies watched me, and made lots of noise with utter abandon. They also followed the parent around.
In looking at the bird photos Charlie posted, I do believe they are the same age, and probably the same brood. I could only find the pair, and one parent nearby, and I was up there quite a long while myself. I also checked further down the ridge, starting there first. The only info I found on range was published in 1960 or something, and states the range on only one square mile, but I doubt that is true.
I know I will have someone mad at me again, but that is the way it goes.. In the morning I will post my other trip which includes Pine Grosbeak, and lots of Chukar, information on my 2 1/2 day trip is still in the car. Vicki Biltz Bonney Lake Wa vickibiltz at msn.com


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