In February, we welcomed world-renowned snowy owl expert Norman Smith to TRWA’s Guest Speaker event at the Middleborough Public Library. Norman spent the hour speaking on his life as a “self-taught naturalist,” working as a raptor specialist for Mass Audubon, and involving his children and grandchildren in his important work.
Over four decades, Norman captured and relocated over 900 snowy owls from Logan Airport. He detailed his process, shared what he learned, and kept the audience captivated. One of his messages was “don’t believe everything you read; go out in the field and see for yourself,” referencing information about raptors that he learned firsthand by his work and research. He also shared his daughter’s impressive research about Saw-whet owls.
Norman’s passion for owls and the natural world is truly inspiring. His mission is to use the information he has gathered over his immense career to excite everyone he meets, especially children, to help us better understand, appreciate, and care for this world in which we live. (1)
To learn more about Norman Smith’s outstanding work and career, see links below.
Award-winning short film: The Snowy Owls of Logan Airport
Mass Audubon – The Owl Man of Logan Airport
Mass Audubon – Snowy Owl Project
Mass Audubon – Snowy Owl Release in Duxbury Video
Mass Audubon – Saw-whet Owls
