Spotted this pair in our back yard just a few minutes ago. The one in the top photo seemed to be entertaining the idea of building a nest, working with the loose material. Taking the photos was a balance of wishing to get closer, but knowing they could fly off in an instant. These remained a lot longer than past experiences with owls. I suspect they were siblings.
This is a Great Horned owl! They only "nest" once a year, in the early spring. This looks like it might have been one of this year's fledglings - its belly feathers still look a little downy. Great photo, Jim - maybe my 4-H Birdwatchers should have come by your house for our "Owl Prowl" 2 weeks ago!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shot!
ReplyDeleteThere have been a few more Great Horned Owls around lately. I've noticed one by the old LNE Cottage up in the trees and one more by Thomas' home. Must have been a successful breeding year. Or I'm seeing double.
Love it! looks kind of creepy with it looking right at the camera. what lens are were u using?
ReplyDelete100-400L, at 400, but had to go fairly high on the ISO to get an accepable shutter speed. Would love to have a "fast" 600L, but out of my affordability category.
ReplyDelete