Particle physics takes flight

Photo: Diana Rogers, SLAC

Particle physics takes flight
Welcome to SLAC's End Station B, where work on the International Linear Collider (ILC) will help shape the future of particle physics–although some inhabitants don't seem to give a hoot. Until last month, End Station B was home to a family of horned owls, who claimed a piece of real estate on the building's ledge.

"Horned owls are common in the US," says SLAC's Michael Scharfenstein. "But it is unusual to find them nesting on End Station B."

The adult owls were seen in their new residence early in March. By the end of March, End Station B had exerted its irresistible romantic influence, and two adorable little baby owls had emerged. One of the babies ended up on the ground in early April. Rescued by Scharfenstein, the little ball of fluff went to live at a rescue center. A few days later, the remaining owls vacated their nest without giving notice.

Scharfenstein, an amateur ornithologist, witnessed the entire saga. "Owls are really shy," he says. "It was a unique opportunity to see them like this."

Moving into a new neighborhood carries its risks. The owls did not get along with a family of ravens nesting on the adjacent building, End Station A. "There was heavy sparring between the ravens and the owls," says Scharfenstein. "It was pretty amazing to watch."

Nobody saw the owls build their nest. A family of ravens– perhaps the ones on End Station A–may have been the nest's original owners. Could this explain the bad blood between the two avian families? The owls declined comment. Had a raven been asked if it would repeat the experience, one suspects it might have said, "Nevermore."

Chandra Shekhar