Eastern Screech-owl - Petit-duc maculé
Eastern Screech-owls have been visible in the Ottawa area as long as I have been birding here, and that seems to have intensified in the last few years. They are best viewed very early in the morning, or at the beginning of the evening - they are dormant during the day, for the most part, and often hidden from view. This Owl is one of a breeding pair that chose a more exposed roost, and on this occasion spent about ten minutes seeming to contemplate an early afternoon food run. But the Owl soon settled and resumed resting. It was one of those magical moments when you get to see a bird being itself, and I was super lucky to have my camera and an open, low perch for the bird. I will note, as a birder sensitive to the health and freedom from harassment of the owls, that people visiting the area where this and other owls have made homes have been super respectful and non-intrusive, at least in my experience.
Eastern Screech-owl - Petit-duc maculé
Eastern Screech-owls have been visible in the Ottawa area as long as I have been birding here, and that seems to have intensified in the last few years. They are best viewed very early in the morning, or at the beginning of the evening - they are dormant during the day, for the most part, and often hidden from view. This Owl is one of a breeding pair that chose a more exposed roost, and on this occasion spent about ten minutes seeming to contemplate an early afternoon food run. But the Owl soon settled and resumed resting. It was one of those magical moments when you get to see a bird being itself, and I was super lucky to have my camera and an open, low perch for the bird. I will note, as a birder sensitive to the health and freedom from harassment of the owls, that people visiting the area where this and other owls have made homes have been super respectful and non-intrusive, at least in my experience.