Billy Chapman writes about being part of the Urban Burrowing Owl Project.
I am very pleased that I was given the opportunity to participate in the Burrowing Owl Monitoring Project. As a result of participation, I have been inspired to use my optical equipment on a regular basis and to learn more about bird watching. My most thrilling experience came on the day that I went to my assigned burrow, carrying a bit of concern that my adult pair probably didn’t produce any offspring, because other volunteers were reporting new babies at their sites, while I saw none at mine. A few minutes after I had completed my official thirty minutes of monitoring, I took one more look through my scope. Suddenly, a young owl exited the burrow. Then, another one appeared! Shortly after, a third baby owl came out of the burrow. I stood there silently grinning from ear to ear, but I felt like jumping up and down, shouting, “They’re here.” It has been a delight to have also connected with fellow wildlife enthusiasts and professionals through this project. Most significantly, this monitoring project has become the catalyst for me to engage in more of the Red Rock Audubon Society’s scheduled activities and meetings.
Billy Chapman – 07/24/08
