This week in the woods, we discovered this barred owl napping below the eaves of a barn. We took these images from approximately 20 yards away, using a zoom lens, to avoid disturbing the owl’s sleep. The last thing our fluffy napper needed was human-caused stress.
Winter is tough on barred owls and other owls, because they have fewer prey options now than at other times of year. Depending on the weather, they may also face special challenges to hunting; for example, during freeze-thaw cycles, a hard crust of ice may form over softer snow, preventing the birds from punching through to snag mice, voles and shrews in subnivean tunnels. That's why you are more likely to see barred owls out in the daytime now, as they extend their hunting hours. They also seem to enjoy basking in the winter sun.
Check out this Outside Story article by Northern Woodlands' associate editor, Meghan McCarthy McPhaul, describing barred owls' special adaptations for finding and catching small prey. Asymmetrically placed ears, muffled wings, and necks that can swivel 270 degres all contribute to making them remarkably effective hunters.
What have you noticed in the woods this week? Submit a recent photo for possible inclusion in our monthly online Reader Photo Gallery.