Great Horned Owl Family Reunited!

Year 8

The youngest owlet fledged last night, and joined its family in the new hunting grounds. It took me a few days to find their new territory. Even when I was convinced I was in the right spot due to whitewash, evidence of prey and other signs, it was 24 hours before I actually found their hiding spots. Yesterday morning I had a grand time with the two oldest owlets and Mom. eMail subscribers should follow this link if you want to see the three short videos.

I like the fact that all three owlets telegraph their short flights right now. For over a minute they will stare, head bob and weave as they look directly at the branch to which they wish to fly. Finally … Eureka … a ten yard hop / flight. I think the oldest deserves at least an eight for this landing. Do you agree?

Great Horned Owl Family Time

The Youngest Owlet’s last night on its own …

Videos

Canosia Wildlife Reserve Osprey

Year 8

This was the second stop of my morning. After laying down on the ground watching the owlets this morning for an hour starting at 6:45 am with the mercury at 30F (photos coming), I needed to warm up. Thus I took a series of short hikes as I drove around and checked osprey nests. The Canosia nest is my favorite, closely followed by “Steamshovel Sally”. This nest is surrounded by wetlands and very natural. I still needed to wear a winter parka to take these photographs. Being motionless, even standing, for 30 minutes waiting for some action can sometimes be tough.

The Nest … Looking for a Good Lady Osprey!

The Favorite Tree (about 150 yards from the nest)

Do Owls Get Lonely?

Year 8,

I have no idea what is the answer to this question, but two of the three Great Horned Owlets have fledged. With their new found gift of flight the youngsters have moved about 1/2 mile in the forest, which leaves “junior”. This owlet is all by itself in the nest tree. Momma Owl is definitely delivering food (see early yesterday morning), but otherwise after having Mom plus its siblings around all the time, it is by itself. Thus, Do owls get lonely? Does it even understand the concept? This owlet hatched 7+ days after its siblings. It is not ready for flight.

The Lonesome Dove … umm … Owl

Some Blue Winged Teals I had fun photographing a few days back … in between rain showers.