Since about mid-August one or more barred owls has been calling somewhat
regularly near the mouth of Little Hunting Creek. Twice one woke me up
about 5:00am calling from a group of trees outside my bedroom window. This
isn't the first time I have heard a barred owl in this area but it is the
first time that one has hung around, and the first time I've had one really
close (they are loud!).
Since West Nile Virus wiped out the local crow clan a few years ago, I have
noticed an increase in the number of small raptors (e.g. coopers and
sharp-shinned) nearby. Perhaps the neighborhood is also more congenial for
owls.
Steve Williams
Little Hunting Creek nr. Mt Vernon
