How do they do that ?

photo courtesy of Dennis Swayze

Watching an Active Great Gray is nothing short of amazing.
We as humans can only see a deep snow covered area…a Great Gray on the other hand has the ability to hear a mouse/vole deep beneath the snow.

Great Grays are seen perched in trees, on fence posts and poles where they sit and wait, listen and watch for prey. Their large flat face acts much like a radar dish…along with the ears being off-set that helps them pinpoint the location of prey under the snow.

Once they hear something and become focused they shift into position just prior to launching towards the unsuspecting prey. Not every attempt is successful and may take more than one try in the endless search for a meal.

Cheers !
Dennis