It is unfortunately protocol now for them to start closing right at sunset
unless all rangers are busy with rescues, accidents, crimes, etc.
Alexis DeCaprio
On Feb 1, 2019, at 7:34 PM, Randy Winstead <randywendy@xxxxxxx> wrote:
Michael Ryon and I observed a Short-eared Owl a few minutes after sunset at
its typical location on Hyatt Lane in Cades Cove. We saw it both in flight,
with wing patches clearly visible, and perched on a tree, at which point we
got good views through Michael's spotting scope. Note, however, that we were
ushered out by a park ranger about 15 minutes after sunset. I am used to
being ushered out on Sparks Lane, but this is the first time that I have ever
been escorted out on Hyatt Lane. Another birder mentioned that the same
thing happened to her earlier this year. I don't know if this is a new
protocol, or if this is simply a quicker and more efficient implementation of
an existing protocol. In either case, lengthy stays after sunset, even of
thirty minutes or so, might not always be available in the future.
Randy Winstead
Maryville, Blount County