In my neighborhood and the nearby parkland in Glencarlyn, Arlington we also
have had the most sustained and regular Barred Owl calling I have experienced
here in over 25 years, all this summer. We have at least 2 calling back and
forth quite often and irregularly through many nights, and I suspect I have
heard a 3rd bird -- a juvenile from this year? -- calling also at times. Given
our fairly dense suburban/urban environment, it's been fun. I can't help but
wonder whether loss of other habitat in the area is forcing them to occupy
areas they might otherwise be inclined to avoid. Cheers,
Steve Young
Glencarlyn, Arlington
-----Original Message-----
From: Steve Williams <stephen.l.williams@xxxxxxx>
To: Va-Bird <va-bird@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Mon, 29 Sep 2008 7:06 pm
Subject: [Va-bird] Barred owl(s) at Little Hunting Creek
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=0
Aand sharp-shinned) nearby. Perhaps the neighborhood is also more congenial for
owls.
Steve Williams
Little Hunting Creek nr. Mt Vernon
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