[obol] Burrowing Owl Debate
- From: Jim Leonard <photojleonard@xxxxxxxxx>
- To: obol@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Mon, 30 Dec 2013 08:19:28 -0800
I have been reading several postings on OBOL recently on whether to report
unusual bird sighting locations. What is the purpose of OBOL? Does the
webmaster or person overseeing the website need to come up with an OBOL
mission statement and guidelines for posting on the site? Maybe posting it
on a monthly basis to remind readers. As some of you know I enjoy bird
photography and sharing some of my photos on OBOL for others to enjoy. Some
of my recent photos would not have happened without the posting location
and directions for the unusual bird. Example: Lewis's Woodpecker,
Yellow-throated Warbler and the Burrowing Owl. I recently photographed the
Burrowing Owl because of directions posted on OBOL. Even with directions,
I would not have found it except for a photographer that had his tripod set
up and taking photos of the owl. I have photographed this owl on two
occasions and this owl seemed very relaxed and tolerant of humans. If it
was bothered by humans it could have flown out into the field further away.
As posted by others on OBOL several large farms trucks drove by at fast
speeds causing a lot of noise and wind. This owl was only a few feet from
the road and did not seem disturbed. After posting several photos of the
owl on OBOL I was emailed by at least a dozen people asking for specific
directions to the owl. I received many emails thanking me for the
directions and how much they enjoyed seeing the owl. I was sent a photo by
another OBOL person that photographed a couple taking photos within five
feet of the owl. I do agree not everyone uses common sense when observing
or photographing birds. While driving down the freeway people speed by me,
use cell phones and do text messaging while driving. There are always a
few that don't use common sense. I think when you have a chance, in a nice
way, we should remind people we see not using common sense bird watching
the proper behavior that should be used. Just as a reminder, as humans we
all disturb wildlife when we walk out the door. I walk to my car and a
bird is in the path or by my bird feeders and fly's off. I drive down a
road and a hawk or kestrel fly away from the edge of the road. I go on a
hike and a deer runs by. We all have impact on our environment. I hope in
the future OBOL posters continue to share their bird sightings, knowledge
and unusual bird locations for everyone to enjoy. Just keep in mind common
sense. Happy Birding in the New Year. Jim Leonard.
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