Night Owl

Sitting in our bus watching the Syracuse game when suddenly I hear hooting outside. Is it two old people courting? I am hoping it is two great horned owls calling to each other as I slide into my slippers and grab my special flashlight. As much as I love SU and hoop, I head out for a gander. They are hooting back and forth and I follow the sounds over a few sites. I am closing in when two cars pull in to the park. Suddenly, people are talking, doors are slamming, and a big dog is barking.  One lady calls out loudly, "Have you got something?"

Well, that was the end of that! Total silence from the treetops thanks to Mrs. Loud! So, back inside to watch the game, which by the way the Cuse won against Miami. They went  to 5-1 in the ACC, tied with the big boys for first place! Watch out Duke and NC!

Later I hear the owls talking again. Well, what the heck! Back outside for a 2nd try. This time there is nobody around and I can focus my beam on the hoots unfettered by humans. After a few minutes, bingo! I have the male in my sites. He is sitting at the top of a tall pine tree. I can hear the female not far away, but can't find her as she is hidden in the branches. I know  pretty much that I have spotted the male as they are smaller than the females. The female is huge! Not to say this male isn't good sized. He is! What a treat!!! Owls are so cool!

So here is what I am going to do. The next time I get a spotlight on one, I am going to try to video it for you. This may or may not work but it is worth a try. This new flashlight is so powerful, I think it will work!!!  Until then, here are some fight eyes of what we are seeking:

They eat just about any small animals, including cats (Ouch!) and skunks, and chipmunks. Chipmunks are a big nuisance at my house. I plan to lure in a nesting pair of owls this coming year. Oh yeah baby!