Wayward owl causes traffic jams near Ontario town

A wayward great grey owl calling Kingsville, Ont., home is creating parking and traffic control problems in the southern Ontartio town.

The owl, which is normally found north of Lake Superior, has drawn bird watchers from across Canada and the U.S.

The OPP said visitors aren't keeping safety in mind while jostling for a peek at the bird.

Cars, cameras and observers are often found lining the rural roads near the Second Concession and Division Road.

The OPP said it has received numerous reports of dangerous conditions created by some of these bird watchers. Police want people to park their vehicles and cameras in safe and lawful locations.

The Ministry of Natural Resources is also taking issue with some of the birders.

In a media release, the MNR advised people to stay between 30 and 40 meters away from the bird to reduce potential stress on the bird and avoid possible human-wildlife conflict.

During the weekend, bird watchers got to within a few metres of the owl as it sat on a street sign.

The species of owl is not considered rare in Ontario, but it is rare to see one in southwestern Ontario.

Great grey owls are protected under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.