Northern Hawk Owl!

[johnv]

Our scouts went hiking for 4 days in Garibaldi Provincial Park from Monday to Thursday. The weather was fantastic, the views amazing, and the kids had an excellent time. On Tuesday late afternoon, probably around 6:30, I went for a walk around the lake. There is this trail that goes up to Mount Price so I followed it for a bit, enjoying the views of the lake. There was lots of bird activity and it was quite noisy, but there was a loud screeching that definitely stood out. I didn't even have to go off the trail! The juvenile northern hawk owl was sitting in a tree right in front of me! Excellent views! Life bird for me It was calling to another juvenile that wasn't too far away, and I could see the mom way out in the distance. Unfortunately I didn't have a camera, but the birds were unmistakeable.
Nice to see 2 healthy fledgings!
To get to the trail you first have to hike to Garibaldi Lake, 9km from the Rubble Creek Parking Lot, and then you follow the trail around the lake past the camping spots. There is this dock by a cabin with a warning sign to stay off because the dock is unstable. Just past that dock, look to your right, and you'll see a trail that goes up into the woods. Follow that trail for about 25 minutes and that's where the birds were spotted. If you hit the boulder field you've gone too far.

[oldfulica]

That is a great find. According to Sibleys it is well below the normal breeding range. You did not sign your post so I am assuming you are John Vooys?

[oldfulica]

I just checked Birds Of BC and see there is a sighting at Garibaldi Park Aug 8 1981.

[Gord]

John, a very good bird especially with the breeding record. I have heard of them breeding in Manning Park area (I think) too. Thanks for sharing!

[birder1942]

Hi all. The Hawk-Owl is a great sighting, but the JohnV who posted it, is not me, John Vooys. I always sign entries with my full name, John Vooys, Abbotsford. I have been approached by people about this bird thinking I am JohnV.