Birders:
I have had a number of private inquiries, not surprisingly, about the Barn
Owl I reported for this CBC.
This bird has been seen from time to time in the general vicinity of where
it was recorded for the just completed bird count as well as the bird count
last year. It is along a grassy roadside along Town Line Road south of the
NWA. However at this point the bird is quite elusive. We are still uncertain
of where it is spending the day and although it has been observed on
occasion, our experience is that the chance of anyone arriving in the area
and seeing it is quite low.
I am involved with the Barn Owl Recovery Team and am am working with other
members of the Recovery Team to discover where this bird is residing, and
especially to ensure that whatever is done is in the best interest of the
owl.
We are continuing to follow up leads which might bring us to the bird's
location. However with the exception of the NWA, everywhere else for several
kilometres around is private property. I am certain we will eventually
discover its daytime roost and at that time we will consider options for
posting this information. As it is an endangered species in Canada, I
repeat, it is imperative that the interests of the owl take precedence. And
if the bird is found to be on private property, as it most likely is, then
the wishes of the landowner will have to be respected as well.
Allen Woodliffe
District Ecologist
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
Aylmer District
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