[ECOLOG-L] snowy owls

[Olyssa Starry]

hi all,
i am an ecologist by training, but a bird-watcher by hobby. i've been
watching the sightings lists and have heard from friends about snowy owl
sightings first in harrisburg pa and then as far south as maryland.
is there anyone on this list that has any insights that would explain
this/confirm whether or not this is very unusual?
thanks,
olyssa