To See a Saw-whet Owl.......

     The Scale of Adorability is hardly a recognized measure in the world of ornithology, but if it were, Northern Saw-whet Owl ( Aegolius acadicus) would be a serious contender.

     This is a tiny owl measuring a mere 21 cm (about 8") from the top of its head to the tip of its tail, and weighing around 85 grams (±3 oz). There is variation in size and weight between male and female, and depending on the time of year, but it is a diminutive bird as you may see. 

     In late fall Saw-whet Owls migrate, sometimes in substantial numbers, and birders scour the landscape in hopes of finding one - not an easy task.

     The Long Point Bird Observatory bands these migrants each year, and that is where we headed in hope of seeing one. 

     When I say we, I mean Josh, Vashti (Roddie's mom), Roddie, and me. Roddie is the main reason for this adventure. I first made his acquaintance when he was about six years old, already passionate about birds.

 

     We journeyed down to Long Point last year but had no success. This year, Vashti and Roddie had already made a second attempt, but again came up short. Third time lucky - or so they say - and we were ready to believe that old adage! The wind speed and direction, and other factors seemed to be in our favour. We were primed for success!

     Vashti and Roddie picked me up at 17h:00 and we joined up with Josh about a half hour later, and he drove us to Long Point.

     The conversation, as you might imagine, always came back to Saw-whets, and images danced in our heads. 

     Vashti can be counted on to bring copious snacks, always delicious too; I am quite convinced the journey is worth it just for that!

     We arrived at the banding station about a half hour before the first check of the nets took place, and were excited when the crew left to do their work. But they came back empty-handed. The checks are conducted every forty-five minutes; again they returned without an owl.

      But we are birders after all and patience is an essential component of the way we operate. Roddie, gregarious as always, affable in the extreme, enjoyed the company of others who had gathered, and chatted to all and sundry.

     A biologist from the University of Guelph had made the trip to take blood and swabs from the captures as part of a study of avian flu, the progression of the virus, and to enhance our knowledge of the range of species affected. To date little information has been gathered on owls.

     The third circuit of the nets went ahead as scheduled, and to everyone's delight, but especially Roddie's, the crew returned with a bird! (I should point out that for everyone but me this was a ''lifer.")

     Who knew that Roddie could jump so high? But when "joy" is spelled "Saw-whet" and you are lithe and young, it's easy!

     This owl was about to do yeoman service on behalf of her kind, and we can only hope that whatever indignities she suffered were helpful in the ongoing success of her species.

     Here are some pictures taken by Roddie. Remember, it is pitch black outside and everything happens under artificial lights.

     We were ecstatic to be present for this event.

     After a period of rest in a dark spot, the owl was released to the night where its enhanced vision and superior hearing would enable peerless navigation of its nocturnal realm.

     It was a privilege not only to see the owl, but to share the moment with true friends. I have said it so many times before, but there is no better community than those passionate about the natural world. Thank you Vashti, Roddie and Josh.

     I have included a picture of Roddie as a mere sprite above. Here is a recent shot of the fine teenager he has become.

     We arrived home shortly before midnight, and I hope that everyone slept as well as I did. The owl no doubt resumed her hunt, but with the approach of daybreak she too would seek a place to sleep away the day.

     As long as you plan on bringing snacks, Vashti, I think I could be talked into doing this next year!