Tweeters,


For those of you interested in the emerging research, speculation, knowledge, and understanding of Snowy owls and their irruptions, I would recommend reading the cover story of the current issue of Audubon magazine (March-April 2014).


The next few years will likely bring a dramatic increase in our understanding of the movements of this species.
I have had the pleasure of observing many Snowys, day and night, the past five years in Washington and have found all to be what appear to be healthy, robust birds. I have been confused by comments by others of concern that all have been driven South by starvation or are starving upon arrival or during their stay here. I have also observed individual birds hunting as generalists or specialists. Some specializing in Western Grebes, some small shore birds, some gulls and others a wide variety of prey species. They appear to be proficient at finding feeding sites, that provide what they need, here, East and to the far North and moving on as needed.
The information provided in his article indicate similar observations on the East coast during the 2013-14 irruption.


Also, very good news that public concern and feedback resulted in Snowy owls being captured and relocated, not killed, at Boston's Logan airport.


I look forward to future Lemming booms, large clutches and the return of the Snowys several years from now.


Best regards,
Dan Reiff
MI