Long-whiskered Owlet
Mythical Owl now easier to see than ever
This rare Owl discovered only in 1977 and until recently just not wanting to show to birders. This year there has been a virtual inflation of sightings. More people than ever have laid eyes on this minute and cute Owlet.
Having said that, I still have not seen it – in spite of four tries during 2010. Nevertheless, the experience of searching for it was my absolutely top birding experience of the year 2010. I was very close to it when hearing it at close range – which of course also counts – by Scandinavian rules.
A few days ago there was a note on Birding Peru about yet another site – and this one seems very accessible – at Yambrasbamba between Pomacocha and Abra Patricia. Apparently, the site is next to the road. Best to contact Noga Shanee of Neotropical Primate Conservation nogashanee@gmail.com if you want to visit.
An additional 3 sites are mentioned in this blogposts from my regular blog. 3 ways how to not see the Long-whiskered Owlet. It should be stressed that there have been several sightings from the comfortable Abra Patricia Lodge the last months – but it does involve a 1-2km long walk. As is now, I think most groups do well in visiting both the Yambrasbamba site, as well as either Abra Patricia or LSU trail – depending on your budget. There are certainly more options than ever to see this mythical owl.