We were down at Damon Point today enjoying seven (!) gorgeous Snowy Owls.
Aware that the birds may be quite stressed already, and have certainly been
the objects of a lot of attention, we did not attempt to approach closely
and just enjoyed nice looks from a distance.

Others, however, chose to approach more closely. Sometimes the birds seemed
not to care, other times they seemed "on alert," and one bird may have
actually been flushed.

It peeved me a little bit, but it got me to thinking that I really don't
know what the "appropriate" distance is in this situation. In more isolated
circumstances, I would have gradually approached, watching for any signs of
agitation (and backing off). I didn't want to do that in this case. Others
chose differently.

Are there any guidelines for this situation?

Phil Mitchell
Seattle, WA
--
Learn Bird Songs for the Planet: http://www.larkwire.com
Bikewise: http://www.bikewise.org
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