NEW GLARUS — The Snowy Owl that has drawn the attention of wildlife enthusiasts and casual observers alike throughout early winter in New Glarus has tragically been found dead. 

This striking arctic bird, which captivated many during its time perched atop a light standard at the SSM Health Clinic in New Glarus, sparked traffic disruptions and prompted at least one dedicated visitor from Colorado to make the trip, just to see one of the birds, which is uncommon this far south.

New Glarus Police Chief Jeff Sturdevant confirmed that the owl was found sometime Wednesday near Wis. 69 in the vicinity of County H.

There is no suspicion of foul play in the owl’s demise, he said, noting that its body was intact and likely did not fall victim to predation. Currently, the owl is in the custody of the state Department of Natural Resources, preserved in a freezer, while awaiting further inspection, according to Sturdevant.

“It was just something unique to this area,” he said, understating the fact that New Glarus’ Snowy Owl had become something of a star. “The media was calling all day about it.”

His police department and the county will no longer have to contend with the extra traffic caused by bird watchers. Authorities had to post “NO PARKING” signs along the highway due to the danger it posed pedestrians and travelers alike.

The rarity of seeing a snowy owl in these parts — along with the majesty and beauty of its looks — helped boost its popularity. Sturdevant said one of the sightseers even told him recently he drove from Colorado to see it. 

As of Jan. 5, 84 snowy owls had been reported statewide, compared to only 18 and 34 in each of the past two years, according to the DNR. 

Now, though, it is back to normal in New Glarus.

“We’ve taken down all the no parking signs,” said Sturdevant.