Today I set out to find the Discovery Park Snowy Owl, which was easy to do. I was there about 10:30 am. It was perched on a lower roof of one of the military houses, on the east side. To be careful....and respectful, I stayed on the road east of the houses. I hoped that this was not trespassing. The Owl gave me a good show and I was able to make a couple of quick sketches, I took time to talk to a couple of walkers, when all of a sudden....

A lady, I think one of the local residents, drove up in a truck and told me that I had to leave...NOW! She had a cell phone in hand and seemed rather unsympathetic. I noticed a Seattle Parks vehicle just a little ways behind her. I did show her my sketch but she made it clear that my time was up! She told me that the residents were becoming nervous about having their houses watched. I complied, and told her that I had got what I came for. The Park's Vehicle never got involved.

I have been thinking about this.....I respect their wishes but wonder how much of this viewing of Owls they actually, and legally, can control. I admit that I was too close to their houses, though on a road that seemed clear, and my sketching called their attention down on my head!

I had nothing to be sad about, however, as a had a great view. I just hope I haven't contributed to the discomfort of other birders when they try to go to see the Owl. In any case it was an adventure! Has anybody else been run off from the houses?

-Mark Vernon
Renton, WA


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