24 Days until the US Open at Chambers Bay

I have been walking Chambers Creek Properties for years. I have been carrying a camera since 2009. With the US Open coming to the Chambers Bay Golf Course, which is part of the property, I have decided to share a picture each day for the 365 days leading up to the tournament. The US Open is scheduled to begin on June 18, 2015. As of today, we are 24 days away. For a more complete collection of my local photos, visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/maritimeorca/tags/chamberscreekproperties/

Today's Picture:

Taken on May 25, 2012

After all of this time sharing pictures from the Great Horned Owls that nest on the property, I should probably mention that we have another species of Owl that uses the park. This is a Barred Owl (Strix varia). For those who don't know, this close relative of the Spotted Owl expanded its range West as humans messed with the natural world. Barred Owls are more aggressive and out-compete Spotted Owls when they share a habitat, and their presence is considered to have played a role in the declining numbers of Spotted Owl. Periodically, a story will be posted somewhere on the internet regarding plans to kill Barred Owls on federal land in hopes of helping Spotted Owl populations.

This is not a species that is seen particularly often, but I have reason to believe they are residents of the park. I have had multiple encounters this year, including one that was truly memorable. More recently, I found a pair.

For those who will be attending the US Open, don't expect to see any Owls. If you do see one, it is highly probable that it will be a Barred Owl.