Owls
In The ParkCode of Conduct and Safety
If you decide to visit the Owls yourself, there are some general things to be aware of, for both your safety and that of the owls (and other park residents).
Code of Conduct
Here are some suggested rules for watching wildlife, and particularly owls, in the park. These animals are far more tolerant of humans than they would be away from the city. That is to our benefit, but we should still be aware of their needs at all times.
- Never leave anything behind, especially garbage!
- Do not clear or modify vegetation. Some photographers like to clear intruding items for a better view of the subject (a practice sometimes know as "gardening"). This exposes the subject to danger and was probably why it chose the location in the first place.
- Before looking for owls (or any species) do a little research to be sure that you can recognize signs of stress. Never let your presence cause the owls any stress. If there is any sign of stress, back off.
- Keep in mind that owls are wild creatures and may be unpredictable - especially in the breeding season.
- You are the owl's guest - do not out stay your welcome and you will be invited back again.
- Stay on the trails.
- Never attempt to feed the owls (or any wildlife).
- Photographers should use a lens of long enough focal length to avoid approaching too closely. Also, remember that the best photos are those that show an animal in its environment - close-ups should be kept for Hollywood.
- If you find a young owl on the ground - leave it alone! It is probably waiting for a parent. Look around and you may find an adult bird monitoring your behaviour. At the branching stage or even after they can fly, it is not uncommon for juveniles to be alone on the ground.
- Be aware of other people. Not everyone has the best of intentions towards wildlife - you may need to move further back to prevent any passing "undesirable" people from detecting your subject (sadly). This can be hard to judge - many a tough guy becomes a softie when nature watching.
- If you are in a group, keep it small (I recommend no more than 5 people, unless professionally supervised). Stay together - never approach from different sides. If you must talk, do so quietly.
- Resist the use of recordings to entice owls. This practice has its uses, but is best left to the experts. Overuse can stress the birds - especially during breeding season, when they are highly territorial.
For further guidelines you may want to check with local societies or on the web (see references page for some ideas). Consider yourself fortunate that we can observe these wild creatures at home without the need for special permits. Only by behaving ethically will we be able to retain such privileges. The balance between regulation and freedom of access is, by necessity, very different elsewhere in the world. When we, as a species, abuse our freedom by threatening the survival of other species then regulations become essential.
Safety (Human)
Stanley Park is a generally safe park in a generally safe city. That said, you should be aware that assaults do occur in the park and you are more at risk as the light fails or when on your own.
Some areas are more "at risk" than others - this includes large parts of the territory of the Southern breeding pair (of owls).
Common sense would suggest taking someone familiar with the park as a guide. Time of day makes a great difference - if you find an owl towards dusk, just make sure you know your way out of the park.
There have been claims of owls attacking people. Mostly this is a case of mistaken identity - a pony tail at dusk may look like small food, say. Barred Owls are not likely to attack, Great Horned Owls have a greater tendency to do so, especially if you disturb their young. Once again, "be aware, be cautious", and you should have a great time in our wonderful park!