I was there this morning at Volunteer park to witness the release of the
Snowy Owl that was picked up in the area on Nov 13th by Sarvey Wildlife Care
Center. There was probably over 200 people there including a news station. I
wasn't sure I wanted to go or not but I was curious to see how the owl would
react. Sarvey brought out the Owl in a crate covered by a towel. After some
announcement to the group of people there they removed the towel and opened
the door.



Here's a picture of the crate opening

http://www.flickr.com/photos/seattlebirdman/8256276094/in/photostream





The Owl did not waste any time and immediately flew out in a straight line
across a large grassy area. In about 10 seconds from the crate door opening
the Owl had flown well over 100 yards from the crate and was being pursued
by several crows. Last I saw it is was flying North toward the cemetery
area.



Here are 3 pictures from the initial flight from the crate.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/seattlebirdman/8255205821/in/photostream/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/seattlebirdman/8255206491/in/photostream/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/seattlebirdman/8256279982/in/photostream/



Good luck to the Snowy Owl.



Doug Schurman

NE Seattle