I have always been
on the watch for owls when I am out and about where I live. I hear
them in the early hours. And I have seen them three times now.
The first was
several years ago, spotted an owl in the nearby Wild-wood (named by
me for the Wind in the Willows). It took some searching to find the
photo I posted on FB (2013-11-13) at the time. Not a very good image
but it is all I have. Here is the caption I put with it:
“Went for a long walk in the woods near my place yesterday. Found
some interesting fungi and got some nice photos. Saw a very large
magnificent owl on the hunt and later woke another one.”
My next sighting was
more recent… this year on 2017-05-07. I was walking with my
neighbor dog Cocoa down the gravel road and as we crossed the creek
bridge, a little Western Screech Owl flew up from under the bridge
and sat on a branch. It watched the dog intently while I snapped lots
of pics before it finally flew away. I think it had been displaced by
some recent surveying activity.
And for the best
sighting yet… yesterday!
When I am out walking I am always wishing
to see an owl and yesterday was no exception. The difference is… my
wish was granted!
I was at my favorite
spot at the creek and heard a single loud bird squawk in the branches
above me but didn’t see anything. I knew something was there, but
sat enjoying the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. Cameras, as
always, ready for any visitors to show themselves.
Finally, it was time
to head home (about 5pm) and as I left I looked up and saw a
magnificent owl sitting in the branches above me… watching me! My
hands shook as I aimed and focused the camera. I was worried it would
spook and fly away. But it never did. It watched me intently and at
times relaxed and even appeared bored with me… unless I moved, then
it watched again. I got lots of images and at home looked in my
guidebook to ID it. Definitely a Barred Owl.
I plan to return soon to see if it is there again and also to look for pellets on the ground below.
A little while
before this, a Red-tail Hawk had called to me outside my door (the
reason for the walk) and a Great Blue Heron flew over me as I
came to the creek. It circled and squawked the whole time before leaving... I may have been in its spot. I think all these may have been messages from a
friend who is in the hospital dying from damage from strokes. Good journey Jerry!
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