Barn + Short-eared Owls

Headed out to Boundary Bay on a cool and overcast afternoon. On arriving there were several other photographers watching some Short-eared Owls close to 72 St. Still wanting to find some wintering sparrows I continued east beyond them, but did not get too far before this Short-eared Owl landed on a fence post beside me.

Short-eared Owl
Short-eared Owl

While scanning the fields it started vocalizing.

Short-eared Owl
Short-eared Owl

Then prepared to take flight again.

Short-eared Owl
Short-eared Owl

Kind of hard to ignore them when they are providing opportunities like this.

Short-eared Owl
Short-eared Owl

The flight shots were taken as they were hunting over the golf course. After this diversion I continued east and spotted some activity in a crabapple.

Purple Finch
Purple Finch

This Purple Finch was busy feasting on the berries. Further along while watching some sparrows,

Barn Owl
Barn Owl

… I was pleasantly surprised when this Barn Owl flew in landing briefly.

Barn Owl
Barn Owl

It then moved a short distance away to another stump while continuing to scan the marsh,

Barn Owl
Barn Owl

… and then flew off over the tall grass on the north side of the dyke. The Barn Owl was a definite bonus for today’s walk.