Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Bird watching experts said a snowy owl that drew crowds of onlookers to New York's Central Park is the first member of its species to be spotted in the area since 1890.
The snowy owl, a species typically found much further north in Arctic regions, drew crowds of onlookers to Central Park on Wednesday when photos of the avian started appearing on social media.
Experts said Wednesday marked the first time a snowy owl had been seen in Central Park since 1890. They said the owls sometimes venture south in search of prey and are occasionally seen in the Long Island area.
The NYC Audubon conservation group celebrated the bird's arrival in the park and urged onlookers to make sure not to disturb the owl.
"Owls are especially prone to disturbance in urban areas, from dogs, joggers, and fans. Please exercise caution, keep your distance, and model best birding behavior in their presence," the group tweeted.