Owls and full moons and eclipses…oh my!
Lunar eclipse on March 14th 2025 at 2am at Whitefish Point, MI.
We’re thrilled to say that the spring owl banding got off to a great start last night. Back in 2007, Nova and I changed the start date of the spring owl banding at Whitefish Point from April 1 to March 15, and that is when we intended to start this season. However, as we were out setting up for the season yesterday evening it became apparent that the conditions over the coming night were going to be perfect for owl migration. On top of that, a gorgeous full moon was coming up over Whitefish Bay, rising into the sky where a full lunar eclipse would occur in the middle of the night. This led to a short, decisive conversation. “The weather is perfect for banding.” “yeah, I bet owls will be moving tonight.” “Plus, the lunar eclipse.” “We should start tonight.” “Yes, let’s start tonight.”
We’re so glad we did. It was a beautiful night, particularly for the start of the spring season. We banded 20 Northern Saw-whet Owls and had amazing views of the lunar eclipse. We ended the night feeling so excited to have started the first official season of the Friends of Whitefish Point owl banding and incredibly grateful for the support we have received from all of you. Thank you for helping to make this research possible!
-Chris Neri, Owl Bander
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MATCHING CAMPAIGN: An anonymous individual has pledged to support us with up to $5000 in matching funds, provided we can raise this amount by March 31. If you would like to double your impact for the Friends of Whitefish Point, please donate now and share this with your friends and groups!