People are flocking to this intersection in northwest Rochester to check out a great horned owl and its babies. It's not very often you get to see an amazing owl with its adorable babies so I get why people would want to go check it out. Below you'll see some things to consider so that you aren't a nuisance to the owls.

The Zumbro Valley Audubon Society shared this message on its Facebook page, "To avoid distressing the owls beyond their tolerance point, please consider viewing them from your car. The owls are used to car noise, but not to people talking loudly and making sudden moves. If you do get out of your car to get a better view, please move slowly, be quiet and only stay a few minutes. If you visit the site and there are already 5 or 6 cars watching, please come back at another time. Also - please be aware that the owlets will soon begin "branching". This means they will move out of the nest and perch on nearby branches where they will flap and exercise their wings. Sometimes they fall to the ground. If you see this happen DO NOT "rescue" them. The parents will feed them on the ground and may even attack you if approach the chicks or leave the road. So go see the owls - safely - from a distance. Thank you!"

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the great horned owl is "nicknamed the tiger with wings" because it is a fearless bird of prey. They can eat  4,000+ mice per year. The DNR says these birds are between 18-25 inches tall and weigh between 3 and 5 pounds. The owls can be reddish-brown, gray, black, and white and are known for their loud hooting.

 

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