Over the past week, I have been able to get out 3 nights for Owls(will go again tonight) with great results!
Last Saturday with a crowd of friends we were able to catch and Band 12 Northern Saw-whet Owls, and 1 |Eastern Screech Owl. We also caught a previously Banded NSWO that was originally banded Nov 7th 2010 in FT. Laudon , Pennsylvania.
This was a special night as one of my Guest is a Parapelegic and also has ALS. Minna has been very been an inspiration to me since I meet her in 2008. I know that with her there is no BS , that what she has to say is sincere and meaninful.
I don't think I have ever meet someone that makes me feel so at ease with my self ! It was so very important for me to have Minna come out and get a chance to experience the "Power and Excitment" that these little Owls offer. Time is of the essance for Minna and unfortunately She lives with the inevitable thought of "Is Today the Day?"! I don't know how she manages to move forward with such Strength, that she offers to others. I am forever grateful for the fact that our Paths have crossed!
When Minna let the final Owl of the evening go, I was choked up with emotion. The Owl got out of her Grip and sat for a moment on her Hand. Looked around at all the people,back at Minna and clacked it's Bill. Finally it flew up and landed on the Peak of the Barn Roof and looked back down on Us, on Minna and flew off into the Darkness. For me I thought it had said something to Minna ! It made the connection, that so few ever get a chance to have !
It is a moment that I will forever remember!
On the following Wednesday I caught another 12 new NSWO's and 2 previously Banded birds on what was a Night that others gave up on. And on Thursday another 16 new Owls before having to go to work.
I almost called in sick as there were Owls all around and I think I would have easily beaten the Stations 1 night record of 22.
On Tuesday I had my best Hawk banding day of the season, catching 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk and 3 Red-tailed Hawks.
I wished I had a camer to show some of the Hawks, but that was in a previous post! I will have pics of last Saturday with Minna , when my Friend Pat gets a chance to send them to me!
Thanks Pat, for bring Minna and the Kids out ! And Paul for the treats ! You all made that night one Very Special Night!, I could never do Her justice with words!
