WILLOW CREEK — When the sun sets over Homan’s Pond, a different kind of tourism begins. Guided owl-watching excursions launched this fall by Northwoods Outfitters have drawn 140 participants across 15 evening outings, with the program selling out all available slots within days of each announcement.
Guides lead small groups — capped at 12 for quiet and safety — along a 1.5-mile loop trail around the pond, pausing at listening stations where they broadcast recorded owl calls and wait for responses. The technique, known as “call-back” surveying, has produced sightings of barred and great horned owls on 90% of outings.
Julia Chen said she was initially skeptical about the demand. “I thought, who wants to stand in the dark and cold in October and hoot at trees?” Chen said. “Turns out, a lot of people.”
Participants have traveled from as far away as Massachusetts, according to sign-in data. The $35 per-person fee includes a headlamp, a field guide, and a hot beverage at the trailhead.
Maine Audubon has taken notice. The organization plans to use Willow Creek’s program as a model for similar offerings in other rural communities.
The town is considering a permanent wildlife-viewing platform at the pond’s southern edge, funded partly by program proceeds.