Monday, January 26, 2009

Amazing Camouflage

What you can't see in these photos was the perspective I had while driving through the woods, looking for 2 things: The Pileated Woodpecker and the Barred Owl, in which both have been spotted here before. The P.W. was captured digitally a few months ago, but the Barred has eluded me forever. I once seen him fly deep into the woods, after unknowingly spooking him while chatting with a guy (your Dad, Fred) in another vehicle. I have even heard an eerie call once or twice, which I attributed to the barred, but could not locate him. Anyway, I'm driving along, minding my own business, when I see what I think is a paperwasp nest hanging in a tree. I thought it odd that I haven't seen it before, because I drive through these woods most every day. It was about 30 yards in and finding an unobstructed view for the lens at first, was frustrating. I almost gave up, because who really cares about a wasp nest, but I pressed on. At last, I found a hole through the limbs to look through. I grab the lens & see the distinctive brown and white feathers of the barred. Woohoo! Not only did I find an owl, but I found a better vantage point and the sun was at a great angle with shadows. What a great day!

7 comments:

  1. Great capture and you didn't even disturb him/her.

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  2. he is just beautiful! So glad you found him! I need your sleuthing skills!! Can you come to Michigan so we can try to find the snowy owl? :-)

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  3. Unbelievable!!! Holy Owl!!
    These are the best pictures..I oohed and awwed with you when I saw the close up.. Mother nature at her best with all those blending colors..thank goodness you were persistent to seek out that paper nest!!

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  4. Beautiful shots.Persistence paid off.
    Blessings,Ruth

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  5. That is so fantastic Hannibal..and it sometimes pays to look twice!

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  6. A great day indeed for you and US!! He's beautiful. I loved seeing him there with his eyes open!! I'm glad you pressed on and got the picture.

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  7. I'm a little bit jealous! How beautiful these photos are! I so enjoy coming over to your blog and seeing what wonderful thing you have captured with the camera. Great post and beautiful owl!

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