Eastern Screech-Owls being one of our smaller owls ( 8 in ) compared to the Great Gray (27 in ). Being nocturnal they tend to sleep away the day usually perched in a cavity opening. Their calls are described as a soft quavering whistle or whinny.
Other than the fact that they are so small their coloration definitely helps them blend into their surroundings and can be difficult to spot.
This encounter has only been the 4th time I’ve been able photograph one of these small owls…hopefully they will stick around.