Thank you to those that sent personal replies to my post. I have read http://ebird.org/content/ebird/news/sensitive_species, and I was aware of the guidelines before I initially replied to Ross's post above.
Both the ABA and eBird.org, at this time are allowing birder discretion which I feel is the very best policy:
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How to report sensitive species to eBird
eBird has a series of output tools that display information about birds. Our goal is to promote the exchange of information, and our tools are designed to help people share data. With that in mind, one must consider whether it is appropriate to report specifics about birds that could be considered sensitive. eBirders must take it upon themselves to understand the situation locally and to use their best judgment, as the status of a species may change from place to place. For example, Long-eared Owls are particularly vulnerable to human disturbance in their day roosts across the Northeast, but in the West they can occupy more remote areas away from potential problems.
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The policy could change and eBird.org could take steps to obfuscate or delay all owl siting reports. I hope they do not do that because I think there is more good than harm done by reporting many or most owl sitings.
I do not know which owl this is about, but if it is a Saw Whet then I do not think reporting the roost site would be bad for the owl. They typically do not appear to be visibly disturbed by human proximity. If it is a Long-eared, then yes reporting it may be a bad idea and anybody who does observe it should do so at a significant distance, preferably high powered scope distance. Most Long-eared Owls are easily disturbed by close human proximity at their day roost, but not all. Some of them choose to roost in a busy park campground where they pay no attention to noisy campers in close proximity. In the latter case, for example a Long-eared Owl at Tamarisk Grove Campground (http://vtm.smugmug.com/San-Diego-County-Wildlife/ANZA-BORREGO-DESERT-AREAS/1739516_2447kW/86161441_6XhVr#!i=86161441&k=nkTgX9Q), it would be perfectly ethical and reasonable to report this bird on eBird.org.
In my opinion, the ABA code of ethics is sufficient in allowing birders to police their own behavior, and by and large, birders are a group who care the most about bird conservation. The ABA basically says to avoid disturbing the birds. I understand/respect eBird.org and Ross Geredien's concern about disturbing roosting owls and sensitive species in specific cases; I disagree that all owl sitings must not be reported or must be obfuscated. Some sitings should be guarded, but not all. The bottom line is clear to me -- take precautions not to disturb birds.
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