Rare visitor from the Arctic has birders flocking to Lake Pueblo

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is urging bird lovers to keep a safe distance as they try to observe a rare snowy owl sighted at Lake Pueblo State Park.

April Estep, a CPW wildlife biologist who specializes in raptors, said the owl might stay in the area several days if it is not harassed by bird watchers.

“As with all wildlife, please be respectful of its space and try not to disturb its rest or hunting efforts,” Estep said. “Take advantage of this rare opportunity to see the snowy owl, but please keep your distance.”

The snowy owl, typically found in the Arctic region of North America, showed up Monday at Lake Pueblo’s South Marina. It is only the second recorded snowy owl for Pueblo County. The first snowy owl was seen here on Dec. 15, 1984.