We're expecting -10 degrees for a low tonight, but yesterday we reached a high of 45, making it a great day for a long walk along the trails of Pheasant Branch Conservancy. Two new birds discovered for the year: a Barred Owl and Fox Sparrow. The Barred Owl was perched at one of his usual spots that makes him look like he's sprouting from the tree, hence the nickname “Sprout” that Dottie Johnson has given him. In the past I've considered this particular owl a 1 out of 2 visits bird, but lately he's been more like 1 out of 5. There's nothing about his stoic stare to account for the schedule change, but the explanation is likely something as simple as a new roosting spot I've not yet discovered. An owl should have a few secrets.
Pheasant Branch, Dane, US-WI
Jan 19, 2013 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
30 species
Canada Goose
Mallard
Cooper's Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
Rock Pigeon
Mourning Dove
Great Horned Owl
Barred Owl
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Horned Lark
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
American Robin
European Starling
Cedar Waxwing
American Tree Sparrow
Fox Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
Northern Cardinal
House Finch
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch
House Sparrow
Barred Owl © 2013 Mike McDowell