From Harold Wilion

When One Door Closes, Another One Opens

I had to stop photographing the Great Horned owls last week. I have some long-standing shoulder problems and running up and down hills carrying my heavy equipment was starting to really kill them, and when I started waking up because of the pain, I knew something had to change.

So, I've been spending my evenings trying to photograph Screech Owls again. Until last night, that has not been successful. He has been seen in a couple different holes he's used in the past couple weeks,, but none with any regularity, and every time I've gone, I've struck out. Finally, last night, after following his trilling, he was found on a branch with a little fall color behind him. It was great seeing him again as I haven't seen a Screech since the spring.

I forgot how fun, but how difficult it was photographing them. Although this looks more like daylight, it was after sunset and I had to use an ISO of 16,000 just to use a shutter of 1/6 sec, which is no guarantee to stop his trilling. But Screech Owl season has officially started for me, and I know you folks will be getting sick of Screech Owl shots in no time.

what a magnificent bird. also want to say, thanks anon, for improving my daily feed with so many superb owls.

It is my pleasure. I never would have guessed sharing these quirky little birds would bring so many people happiness, but I am always glad to hear it!

Do you have a favorite?

not really as a (mediocre) birder, i've always preferred the songbirds. i'm pretty weak on raptor id, but i'm here for whatever you post!

Good enough for me! 😊

I think I see why owls are depicted as wise. This one looks like it's about to teach me a life lesson.

They are smart…at least with owlish affairs… 😜