Snowy Owls Stray From Arctic, Settle Along Chicago Shoreline: Park District

CHICAGO, IL — A pair of snowy owls are far from home, but the Chicago Park District is hoping to make them feel right at home along Chicago's shoreline, where they have settled.

"We'd like to offer them a great winter stay and welcome, but we need your help," the Chicago Park District posted on its Facebook page. With that in mind, the park district has temporarily closed access to the Montrose Pier, which is where the two snowy owls have been spotted.

"These birds have traveled all the way from the Arctic and are considered vulnerable due to their population decreasing," according to the park district. "Help give the owls a warm welcome to Chicago by being respectful and giving them space."

Park district officials are asking people to stay a minimum of 300 feet away from the snowy owls.

The owls have drawn crowds to the beach and pier near the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary on the city’s north side, according to the Associated Press. While snowy owls aren't rare, the number that stop out varies.

With this year's pair arriving earlier than normal, and since they have also stayed longer than is typical, there is some speculation that this year there may be an "irruption," or boom migration, and could mean a dozen or more snowy owls in Chicago.