As many already know by now, winter 2012-2013 is an irruption year for the Great Gray Owl. Right on schedule too as the last one was winter 2008-2009.....pretty much every 4 years and once in awhile 5.

These birds have already been reported in the Ottawa area and elsewhere. Many have been reported on the Quebec side. I was going to head out of town to see one tomorrow but then I got a message that another had been seen closer to home. This could be the same bird or a second as it's in the same area. Then I got a message about another owl spotted further away.

There are many more owls being seen than are being reported this winter. So many owls, where to go first? Either way, it will be a pleasure to see even one.

The above photo of a Great Gray Owl is from a previous winter.

Stats from a birder in Quebec dating back to 1978.
"Here is the list of the most recent invasions of Great Gray Owls in Quebec
With the approximate number of birds reported.

Winter 1978-79: 60
Winter 1983-1984: 350
Winter 1987-88: 26
Winter 1991-92: 60
Winter 1996-97: 60
Winter 2000-01: 103
Winter 2004-05: 600
Winter 2008-09: 70

As you can see, invasions occur at every 4 years, sometimes 5 years. So it is quite possible that
invasion happen this winter." - PB