Vancouver park owls a big hoot for wildlife lovers

Hundreds of bird enthusiasts have been flocking to Vancouver’s Westside in recent days, all hoping to catch a glimpse of the city’s newest celebrities – a family of barred owls that has made a tree in Douglas Park their home. Armed with binoculars, cameras, and giant telephoto lenses, these visitors have been drawn by social media buzz and word-of-mouth within the birding community.

The excitement surrounding the barred owl family has brought together people of all ages and backgrounds. Taye, one onlooker, expressed her delight at being close to wildlife, citing her love for birds. Rudy Braun, a dedicated birder, mentioned the rarity of seeing owls in an urban setting, making this sighting a special experience.

According to eyewitnesses, the owl family consists of a mother, father, and two or three fledglings. The adults can often be seen perched on branches near their nesting hole, while the young owlets remain hidden higher up in the tree. The spectacle has attracted a steady stream of spectators, with about 20 people present at a time during a recent visit to Douglas Park.

Considered by some as an invasive species, barred owls are a rare sight in Vancouver, making them a novelty for residents. James Kung, a local, expressed his appreciation for the presence of real wildlife in the area, contrasting it with the more common encounters with rats and coyotes. To protect the owls and minimize disturbance, the city has installed a fence around the nesting tree and posted signs asking visitors to maintain quiet, keep dogs at a distance, and avoid lingering for too long.

As the barred owl family continues to capture the public’s attention, it serves as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of nature that can be found even in urban environments. The community’s respectful and enthusiastic response to these winged visitors underscores the importance of preserving and appreciating wildlife in our midst.