Asa, I have not seen one of those in quite some time. Where I worked on Long Island in the salt marsh preserve, they were very uncommon. I would see one maybe every three years or so.
The preserve was only 50 acres nestled in between a golf course to the east and houses to the north and a tidal creek to the west.
One really snowy winter (1981-82) we had one hang around for a couple of weeks. That particular one I saw almost every day. They would hunt primarily for Meadow voles. I see that you managed to capture this Short-eared Owl with its dinner. What a gorgeous shot!! I have to tell you that really takes me back. It's probably been close to 20 years since I have seen one! Just incredible.
