Subject: [Tweeters] More on the Reifel Refuge (Photogenic) Great Gray Owl
Date: Feb 25 20:25:14 2015
From: Blair Bernson - blair at washingtonadvisorygroup.com


I joined Pilchuck Audubon yesterday visiting B.C.
where we found waterbirds few and far between but
we more than made up for it at Reifel Refuge. In
a previous post Steve Pink shared his experience
and although we did not find a Saw Whet Owl (there
had been as many as 6 but not one seen yesterday),
we had wonderful looks at the Great Gray Owl -
both on its day roost and then later hunting and
posting in the nearby meadow. Both areas are
closed to the public. At 3:00, if they have
located the owl, they take small groups (4 to 6)
out to see the Owl - getting close enough for
pictures (not going into that discussion area
after the Eide Road brouhaha). After all groups
have seen the GGOW, if it has relocated to the
meadow (often does) then they let EVERYONE in to a
convenient observation spot for their fill of
looks and photos. Yesterday I would estimate at
least 40 people there. It is supervised and order
maintained but it is a very satisfying
experience. The owl is approximately 200 yards in
from the visitor center. They said that more than
4000 people have seen this owl!!!! For most it
was a life bird and/or a life photo.

Two pictures are at https://flic.kr/p/rmnpMi and
https://flic.kr/p/rmuHyR

A bonus shot is my all time favorite of Wood Duck
- one of MANY there. https://flic.kr/p/qpHzEM

--
Blair Bernson
Edmonds