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Around the agricultural areas near the Salton Sea (Imperial County, CA), burrowing owls are common along the banks and raised embankments of the irrigation canals. Unlike the photos the of burrowing owls posted here from Florida, the western race is seen mainly in areas of bare dirt. They are out at all times of day.
A car is a good blind. Approach the owls very slowly and tangentially. Let them get used to you. You'll know when you're accepted when they go to sleep in your presence. No joke.
A big warning: do not attempt to drive on wet muddy areas in this region. If conditions are wet, stay on paved or very well graveled roads. The "alkali mud" is soapy and more slippery than black ice. It will stick to your wheels and throw them out of balance, limiting how fast you can drive. (There is a self service car wash in Brawley.) Don't think your 4wd, special tires, and high clearance will prevent sliding into a drainage canal.
All of the following photos were taken near the Salton Sea.
Good luck!
---John
Gallery: http://cubit.smugmug.com/Nature/Burrowing-Owls-Athene
Sample:
http://cubit.smugmug.com/Nature/Burrowing-Owls-Athene/i-bwch7v6/4/XL/_DSC2201-XL.jpg
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