The last thing I ever expected to see in the center of the city…really caught me of guard but still managed a few frames.
First thought it to be a Great Gray (which would be highly unlikely)…then a Great Horned but as I approached soon realizing it was in fact a Barred Owl.
Somewhat similar to a Gray in appearance but smaller in size…perhaps the biggest noticeable difference would be the coal black eyes.
This encounter was short and brief before it took off and disappeared into the bush along the river.
Again reminding myself to always expect the unexpected.

The Owl theme continues only this time a Barred Owl.
Similar in appearance to a Great Gray with both having a disk face and the Barred a little smaller in size.
The most notable difference would be their Black Eyes.
This year there has been numerous reports of Barred Owls being sighted and photographed within the Winnipeg.
Hopefully they will continue to thrive within the city.

During these troubling times I have all sorts of time to reflect back on trips into Owl Country. This past winter season had brought a good number of days spent with Great Grays and Hawk Owls…since last year had been a total loss with no owls located.

Each and every sighting of a Gray was a new thrill…don’t take me wrong but need to say that the most excitement came with the opportunity to again photograph a Barred Owl as they are less common than Great Grays.

Perhaps Barred Owls are increasing in numbers as there has been a couple recent reports of them being seen in wooded areas of the city.