What an utter thrill for us to have this barred owl, also known as the hoot owl, visiting today. He (?) has been sitting in the trees right outside the house for hours and hours now. The other birds around today; the chickadees, pine grosbeaks, blue jays, nuthatches, woodpeckers, mourning doves, and a couple of crows don't seem to mind his presence at all. Neither does he show interest in them. I wondered about the red squirrels, but he seems disinterested in them as well. But perhaps it is all a ploy. We'll see. Anyhow, the last time one came by was in February, 2003. We are like kids running from window to window and standing outdoors just watching. These pics were taken through the telescope.
So beautiful! I love owls, such lovely creatures and yet deadly as well (at least to their prey).
ReplyDeleteWow he is a stunner!
ReplyDeleteI am fascinated by the birds here, we have a birdfeeder off our cottonwood in view of the bay window and I love watching. This morning we have had already had a Red Cardinal and a Woodpecker
He is absolutely beautiful. Thanks for sharing your pics.
ReplyDeleteWe had an identical visitor a few winters ago. Such majestic birds, quite fascinating. We saw our owly friend in the act of capturing a small rodent during his time with us...like living in the midst of a nature film!
ReplyDeleteWow! Very exciting! Thanks for sharing those great photos.
ReplyDeleteWOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAre they a night hunter? Is he just resting? Will he go after the squirrels tonight?
What stunning photos! He's a fascinating creature, isn't he?
ReplyDeleteOh Nan, what a treat to have the Barred Owl so close. It must have been tired and having a rest.
ReplyDeleteI always stop on "pine Grosbeak" when you say you have seen on in your garden. That was my nemesis bird for many years before I finally got to see one. I think they are just gorgeous.
Nan, How gorgeous he is! We did that same thing running from window to window the other night when twelve white tail deer walked down the road single file at twilight. We see white tails pretty often, but not usually that many at a time.
ReplyDeleteNan, these are outstanding pictures!! How cool to not only see an owl, but to get such great shots. I've only seen one owl and the picture is decent, but not nearly as clear as yours. Our owl appeared right after the 4th of July several years ago and we think he got startled out of its home from all the fireworks. He hung around for a couple of days and then disappeared. Never saw him again. :(
ReplyDeleteHe's a beauty! I've never seen an owl outside of a sanctuary before. ~ Lynda xox
ReplyDeleteWonderful owl pictures! I would love to shoot a photo of one. You have a nice blog!
ReplyDeleteShelley
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