Community Corner

Rare Owls Seen Near Waukesha County

The long, late winter has sent three owl species south, looking for food. The DNR has safe viewing tips for people lucky enough to glimpse the great grey owl, northern hawk owl and boreal owl.

Three species of rare owls have come to Wisconsin from the boreal forests of Canada, looking for food, as the late winter has made it difficult for them in their usual habitat. 

Every few years, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, there is a crash in the population of small rodents that forces owls to move south in search of food. Because of it, three species not normally seen here have moved to the area. The northern hawk owl, great gray owl and boreal owl have all been spotted in the state, as far south as Kenosha County. 

"Unfortunately, long winters and early springs, coupled with unfamiliar landscapes, increased roads and other risk factors, have taken a toll on some of these rare visitors," explained Ryan Brady, natural resources research scientist with the DNR. "Great grey owls and northern hawk owls are prone to vehicle collisions as they hunt over roadside ditches. Boreal owls may begin hunting by daylight to find food, and may turn to backyard bird feeding stations in hopes of finding mice attracted to spilled seed."

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From The Cornell Lab of Ornithology's All About Birds guide

The great grey owl is the tallest American owl, with the largest wingspan. It stands between 24 and 33 inches tall, and has a wingspan of up to 5 feet. 

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The northern hawk owl is a medium-sized bird, standing between 14 and 18 inches tall, with a wingspan of just over 2 feet. It can see its prey a half mile away. 

The boreal owl is a small owl with no ear tufts, standing between 8 and 11 inches tall, with a wing span up to 2 feet. 

The DNR is looking for information about where the birds are seen, regardless of whether they are alive. Anyone who sees one of these three owls is encouraged to fill out a rare bird sighting form , noting the species name, location, date and other information. 

If you see one of these owls, there are some tips the DNR has released to keep the birds—and you—safe. "These owls are here because of a lack of food in the north and some of them are stressed from their long flights, unfamiliar surroundings, and a late winter," said Andy Paulios, DNR wildlife biologist, in a release. "We share people's excitement about the chance to see these birds but encourage people to make sure to give the birds a reasonable space and to never attempt to pet or hold them."

Here are the agency's guidelines for safe viewing: 

  • Avoid approaching closer than 20-30 feet at a minimum. For most owls an observation distance of at least 50 feet is recommended. Never, under any circumstance, should you attempt to pet or hold a bird.
  • If you are concerned the bird may be ill or injured, contact a local rehabilitator for professional assistance. A directory is available using thekeyword “rehab” at dnr.wi.gov.
  • Prevent excessive noise. To reduce potential impacts on roosting and hunting owls, talk softly, turn off running vehicles, and minimize movements as possible.
  • Avoid excessive use of flash photography, which can disrupt an owl’s activity patterns.
  • Be a good neighbor. Obey local rules and ordinances on parking and trespass. Do not block access to public roadways and access points. Be courteous to the local community so that birders and wildlife watchers are welcome the next time a rare bird shows up.
  • If you find a dead owl place it in a sealed bag in your freezer and contact your local DNR office for guidance.
  • If any issues, contact police or DNR hotline (1-800-847-9367)


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