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Project Noah Nature School
Bubo virginianus
One of the largest owl species in North America. This species can be identified by their distinct ear tufts, a pale coloration around their large yellow eyes; and a prominent dark ring on either side of the eyes. Coloration varies widely depending on the region but feathers tend to be barred, with brown, tan and red colors. As you can tell, this owl's coloration perfectly suits it surroundings.
In a small desert canyon dominated by creosote, ocotillo, lechugilla, and yucca; closed in by weathered, tan-colored limestone cliff-sides.
What a morning! This definitely is one of my favorite animal encounters. I was so surprised to find this beautiful bird while walking my dogs. I had heard the squirrels that live in the rock crevices sound their alarms and thought it was just because I was nearby but, when I turned to look at the cliff-side I saw the squirrel wasn't even paying attention to me. It was too busy trying to "shoo" away something above it. I noticed a peculiar pattern and realized I was seeing two white feet, realizing this was an animal standing near the squirrel I focused my attention on the image and realized it was an enormous owl! Which was by the way, completely UN-phased by the squirrel's attempt at scaring it off. Quickly I started to take pictures, then realized the owl wasn't phased by me either. So little by little I climbed closer and closer. It gave me so many opportunities but it was overcast, so pictures were not coming out as I would have liked and I felt I didn't have time to mess with the settings on my camera. So there you go. This was one of those times I wish I had a better camera, and what a time for a dirty lens (and no cleaning cloth) too! Oh well. Hope you enjoy the photos none-the-less.
Spotted on Aug 21, 2014
Submitted on Aug 22, 2014
9 Comments
The photos are gorgeous. What a beautiful spotting and cool story. Thanks for sharing.
! Great series ! Its interesting to read how you found this marvelous creature !
Thank you everybody, for your positive comments! It is very rewarding to be able to share what I love with the Noah community.
Awesome shot!
Your spotting has been nominated for the Spotting of the Week. The winner will be chosen by the Project Noah Rangers based on a combination of factors including: uniqueness of the shot, status of the organism (for example, rare or endangered), quality of the information provided in the habitat and description sections. There is a subjective element, of course; the spotting with the highest number of Ranger votes is chosen. Congratulations on being nominated!
Awesome.......
Pretty nice, i loved your picture!
Wonderful photos!
Love this spotting and your story about how you got it! It might have been nice to have a cleaner lens, etc. but you captured the owl and were able to share it with us - thank you! I hope to be able to photograph one some day! :)