(WBBM NEWSRADIO) —Overzealous bird watchers have prompted the Chicago Audubon Society to ban pictures of owls on its Facebook page.
The Audubon Society said most photographers give owls enough space, but they can’t tell if certain pictures were taken ethically. The ban, effective this week, is designed to get people thinking about their impact.
Cook County Forest Preserve spokesman Carl Vogel said some visitors indeed cross the line.
He wouldn’t say where it’s been a problem, so as not to draw more people searching for Long-Eared or Snowy Owls that migrate here in the winter.
“Owls rest in the daytime, so, if they’re hearing people and seeing people, they’ve got to stay on alert and they’re using up some of their energy, and they’re off their rhythms for the day,” Vogel said.
The forest preserve district has posted signs reminding people to stay on trails and keep at least 30 yards from owls that sleep in the daytime.
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