I've been meaning to post this series of pics featuring the barred owl family since I took them a few weeks ago at Myakka River State Park. Mama owl was sitting on the ground and appeared to be in hunting mode staring and staring at the ground.
Dusk was nearing and as soon as the last of the visitors observing the barred owl family left (except for yours truly -- the entire SDP team is very dedicated), mama owl flew a short distance to the sidewalk where she pawed her wickedly sharp talons at something on the ground.
She squished her cute little face against the pavement and picked up whatever it was. Perhaps a small snake? A gecko? A beetle?
Mama immediately flew to a branch and fed the mystery meal to one of the little ones. Whatever it was, it was small. And, from the looks of it, the baby owl wasn't too satisfied with the tidbit. As I mentioned, these pics were taken a few weeks ago. Since then, I've returned to the nest area several times, but it appears both babies have fledged and disappeared. (There was an unsubstantiated rumor that one of the babies was sick and died. But, based on my observations, both little ones were healthy…and I think both left the nest.) I'm so happy I got to see the owls when I did. What a treat!
10 comments:
Beaut photos, and what a life for the Mum, face down in some smelly area no doubt, guess the wee chick will let her know if he wants more. Cheers,Jean
What a treat is right! I always thought owls were nocturnal and slept during the day.
Great shots! These guys are really cooperating with you and your camera.
I love seeing these owls! Mama is just beautiful! And the chicks grow up so fast, as I suppose they must. We have a kildeer and its chick in our backyard. The chick is growing so fast we can almost see the difference from one day to the next.
Fabulous! They're such beautiful owls!
They are beautiful creatures! Thanks for sharing these wonderful pictures.
Your owl series has been fascinating, SRQ. In the animal world, every day is a dangerous struggle to find enough to eat without being eaten.
Owls really are the most interesting birds, you captured a really good series of shots here SRQ, bet she had her beady eyes on whatever it was the whole time, just waiting to pounce.
These are such great shots. Your bird photography is getting greater by the day.
Great owl series, its hard to get a peek into their world.
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