The first Northern Hawk Owl arrived in Sax-Zim Bog yesterday just north of Duluth! This pic is from this morning. Other than one brief sighting in the Duluth area, this is the only NHO that is being seen to my knowledge.
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This owl is one of rarest “owl finds” each winter in the Lower 48. In rather small numbers it migrates down from Canada to the Minnesota Boreal Forest. A few years ago I knew of only two birds across the USA (other than Alaska). Conversely the Snowy Owls seem to have gone further south than northern Minnesota, with a sighting even down in Kansas. Have no fear, the Duluth area will get some Snowys that will stay the winter. It’s early yet.
Northern Hawk Owl on the Hunt
A “Snow Shower” in the Sun!
Frost at Sunrise
The black with white specks on the head rimmed with black really makes it look fierce.
What a lovely shot! This is my first comment, despite following along for quite some time. The internet is a strange place. But I must say, I do enjoy these regular emails. I live in North Carolina, and I am simply in awe at the birds you are able to capture! Thank you for sharing.
Good to have you on board, Missy!
Nice, In 2012 when I photographed at McGregor Mn. with the huge invasion of Owls the first day out, we had 101 Great Gray’s and 11 Hawk owls. Don
What crazy, neat day! You are lucky. I missed that epoch irruption.
beautiful images! i remember seeing one in canada many years ago. thank you for sharing -awesome!
Excellent!
Wonderful to see this bird Rich, thank you.