Change in Subject

photo courtesy of Dennis Swayze

With finally a sunny, calm day the job jar had been put on hold so it was off to bush country and owls. Slow disappointing start with no Great Grays but my luck would soon change.

Came across a Northern Hawk Owl…now I’m not a big fan of pole/wire perched owls but never pass up the chance. It soon became apparent that this owl which is much smaller than a Gray was active. They are also more challenging to photograph since they are smaller and very quick and fast with little to no indication when they may launch from a perch.

So it was a coat open, gloves off kind of day where I was able to spend time with this little speed demon.

It would have been more eye pleasing if this launch had been off a tree but you take whatever Mother Nature provides.

Reading the Body Language…Part 2

photo courtesy of Dennis Swayze

In the last communication you’ll remember the owl had moved and focused on something as I waited for things to unfold.

All of a sudden it was a hold the shutter button down moment as the owl took to flight.

After a series of shots the owl was too close to focus on as it passed within three feet of where I stood.

This encounter turned out to be a real Nature Rush…something that doesn’t always take place.