A wayward great grey owl calling Kingsville, Ont., home is creating parking and traffic control problems in the southern Ontario town.

The owl, which is normally found north of Lake Superior, has drawn birdwatchers from across Canada and the U.S.

Provincial police said visitors aren't keeping safety in mind while jostling for a peek at the bird.

Cars, cameras and observers are often found lining the rural roads near the Second Concession and Division Road.

Police said they have received numerous reports of dangerous conditions created by some of these birdwatchers. Police want people to park their vehicles and cameras in safe and lawful locations.

The Ministry of Natural Resources is also taking issue with some of the birders.

In a media release, the MNR advised people to stay between 30 and 40 metres away from the owl to reduce potential stress on the bird and avoid possible conflict.

During the weekend, birdwatchers got to within a few metres of the owl as it sat on a street sign.

The species of owl is not considered rare in Ontario, but it is unusual to see one in southwestern Ontario.

Great grey owls are protected under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.