It’s so good to see the pictures of owls that folks share. It always makes me think that maybe I’ll see one someday …
Here’s a picture Darin Golden took of a barred owl that spent a big part of Wednesdayin their yard in Rice Lake Township just off Martin Road. He says it’s the first owl they’ve seen in the six years they’ve lived there.
 I wouldn’t try to win a staring contest with this owl. Thanks for sharing this beautiful portrait, Darin.
On another topic, I’ve been working on a story for the News Tribune on the Erie Pier area off 40th Avenue West in West Duluth, just off Interstate 35. It’s a popular birding area, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons. But it’s also a staging area for the I-35 megaconstruction project, as well as for other contractors. So it seems to be off limits to birders during this migration season. Check the Duluth News Tribune in print or online in the next day or two for more information.
On the other hand, you’re always welcome at Hawk Ridge. Kurt Kuehn reports that northwest winds are expected during the coming weekend. That would create ideal conditions for raptor migration, he says. Follow Skyline Parkway off Glenwood Street on the eastern side of Duluth.
Your bird pictures and stories welcome at: jlundy@duluthnews.com.Â
Darin, Awesome picture! Thanks for sharing.