Photo by Ken Sproule
People are often disappointed that we don’t see more owls during our walks. On Friday, February 5, 2016 however, we were most fortunate in having a good and long look at a barred owl. I thank walk members Ian Valentine, Ken Sproule and Judy-Ann Cazemier for the photos:
Barred Owl L’Amoreaux Park Photo by Judy-Ann Cazemier
The barred owl is a relatively stocky, medium sized owl.
Photo by Ian Valentine
The dark eyes are distinctive feature.
Photo by Ian Valentine
It is somewhat pale in colour.
Photo by Ian Valentine
Photo by Ken Sproule
Another characteristic is the streaked belly.
Photo by Ian Valentine
They can be found throughout most of eastern North America and in northern sections of western North America.
Photo by Ian Valentine
Barred owls are uncommon and usually found in mature forests like the one at L’Amoreaux Park.
Photo by Ian Valentine
In their mostly nocturnal hunts, they take small mammals.
Barred Owl Stretched Wing L’Amoreaux Park Photo by Judy-Ann Cazemier
Barred Owl and Red-tailed Hawk L’Amoreaux Park Photo by Judy-Ann Cazemier
A pair of crows and this red-tailed hawk were keeping an eye on the owl.