This will be the fifth year for the California Audubon Bird of the Year contest which began in 2009, with the Yellow-billed Magpie (Pica nuttalli) taking the spotlight (click on photos for full sized images).
This year there are six finalists to choose from or you can write in the bird of your choice. Since the purpose of this process is to recognize a California species of conservation interest, I am personally recommending that everyone vote for the Western Burrowing Owl (Athena cunicularia)!
The Burrowing Owl is listed as a “Species of Special Concern” in California and their numbers have been dropping continuously for decades now. Any spotlight that we can focus on this adorable bird could be a step in the right direction for getting it some badly needed attention.
I urge you to head on over to the California Audubon Bird of the Year website and vote now and vote often for the Burrowing Owl until Friday December 6th when the voting ends. Thank you for your support!
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As a Floridian, I’m not sure I should have a vote! But the Burrowing Owl certainly deserves the honor!
Oh cool. I WILL go over and vote as soon as I publish this comment.
Your photos, especially the owl, are fantastic.
Great post, the Burrowing Owl is one of my favorite birds.
Hi Larry, love everything about these Owls!
“Look into my eyes……”
I love the Burrowing Owl, so charismatic, great image too
What a darling! I do love owls, but there are many fantastic choices. Can’t wait for the results!
I can’t believe I just now saw this. Love that trailer — made me laugh. The Barn Owl “shocked the world.” I’ll head over there now to vote.