Re: RFI: Short-eared Owl

Steve Sanford (tanager@mail.bcpl.lib.md.us)
Wed, 25 Mar 1998 18:29:04 -0500


Greg,

On Short-eared Owls ...  my old reliable spot, from about 1991 to 1996
was Deal Island Wildlife Mgmt Area in Somerset Co, about 10 miles east
of Princess Anne. In those years at precisely this time of year, I went
there at dusk and always saw at least one, usually three Short-ears,
often with a Rough-legged Hawk. I missed going there last year, so I
certainly don't KNOW they are still there. I may return there this
weekend.

To be more precise on the location, go about 10-15 miles east of
Princess Anne on Rt 363. About a mile or two after you get into the
truly treeless marsh, turn left on the rough road in the WMA (where
there is, or at least was, a WMA) sign, and go to the end. We have seen
the owls within the last 1/2 mile of the road, and you can almost always
stir up some Va Rails by making disgusting noises. It's a wonderful
place, and you should also check Riley Roberts Rd, about 3 miles further
east on Rt 363 (left) for waterfowl and egrets.

Closer to your home, assuming Lusby is Calvert Co, in Dec 95 we had four
nice Short-ears at Beauvue ponds in St Mary's (rt 244, due south of
Leonardtown), but I haven't heard of them since. Maybe the other
southern Marylanders can chime in here.

Finally, the area around Feeser Rd. southeast of Taneytown, Carroll Co
used to be good, but I haven't tried it, or heard the status there for
several years.

Good luck. Maybe I'll see you at Deal.

--
Steve Sanford
Randallstown MD
tanager@mail.bcpl.lib.md.us