3 Short-eared Owls again at the Portland Jetport

[David Gulick]

Nice long show from at least 3:15-4:30 and later. Three birds. All seen together in the air at one point. Sometimes mobbed by the crows who were commuting into Portland for their night roost. Also three Redtails circled close overhead and the harrier was again present (as it was yesterday).
Dozens of people saw the owls during this time. They occasionally landed on posts, occasionally were seen to pounce in the grass along the runways, mostly seen flying low back and forth within 10-20’ of the ground.

Sent from my iphone with auto incorrect activated :-)

[Charles Duncan]

I want to share this note that I just sent to the Portland Jetport operations staff via their website.:

My name is Charles Duncan, and I'm a part of the loose community of Portland area birdwatchers.  Over the past few afternoons, we've been thrilled to see three Short-eared Owls hunting from various posts and signs along the runways.  Most of us have been watching from the MAC Air viewing lot.  Of course, we're aware of the challenges you face in maintaining safety for air traffic and the well-being of these owls and other wildlife attracted to the habitat at the Jetport. 

I had a good chat this evening with your staffer, Josh, and just wanted to write to say thank you to all of you for doing the best job possible and caring about these birds.  I have no idea if it's possible or appropriate, but, boy, if we could get word of any other species like Snowy Owls and such that could be safely seen from viewing areas, we would appreciate it hugely!

In turn, if there's anything we birders can do to be helpful, please don't hesitate a minute to be in touch. I'd be most happy to spread the word.  And if it would be useful for you, we'd happy to share photos of these Short-eared Owls or any others.