Snowy Owl In Central Park Attracts Visitors Eager To See Rare Bird

A snowy owl was spotted in Central Park for the first time since 1890, which has resulted in birdwatchers and spectators flocking to the park to try to get a glimpse of the unique creature.

The rare bird was seen walking around the North Meadow ballfield on Wednesday morning, CBS News reports. Although birds are known to fly south for the winter, the migration of the snowy owl is not fully understood.

The birds nest in their native Arctic tundra during the summer months and migrate south during the winter. However, experts haven’t figured out why some snowy owls travel further north during the winter.

Experts noted that it is strange for the rare bird to spend time in the city since they are usually spotted at the beach in Long Island and other similar areas where they often breed.

Paul Sweet, an ornithologist at the American Museum of Natural History, researched the history of the bird’s migration to NYC and learned the last time it was spotted was in December 1890 at Central Park.

“I’ve been asked by a few people about the historic record of Snowy Owl in Central Park. The only one I can find is mid-December 1890 by an L. S. Foster. Published in Proceedings of Linnaean Society of New York, no. 3. 1891, 6,” Sweet tweeted.

The feathers of young male snowy owls typically become whiter as they become older, National Geographic reports. Some senior males can become completely white, however, they still maintain small dusky flecks on their feathers.

Meanwhile, females tend to be darker than males and covered with dark dusky spots. The feathers on female snowy owls never become completely white.

Those who are interested in visiting Central Park to get a look at the snowy owl need to be discreet if they see the bird. Kellye Rosenheim, the director of development at the NYC Audubon Society, warned spectators that snowy owls appreciate their personal space.

“You’ve got to keep a respectful distance. They’re easily spooked, and it is absolutely essential to their survival that they're able to rest during the day,” Rosenheim said.