Burrowing Owl

[rpk717]

Many may not realize how small these guys are, when compared to grass it may help. We found several burrows in the front yard of houses in many of the neighborhoods. I shot this several years ago in Cape Coral. If you've never had the opportunity to shoot one, I recommend you make the trip down and take advantage of this opportunity while it's still there. A very aggressive bird for it's size.

[jckegley]

He (or she) has an expression... 'mess with me, I dare ya'. Kind of intimidating for such a small owl. The yellow in the eyes make the photo.

I will keep a look out for these guys next time I am in southern Florida. Was there a particular season you found them or are they there year round?

[rpk717]

I will keep a look out for these guys next time I am in southern Florida. Was there a particular season you found them or are they there year round?
The Burrowing Owl is very localized. The only place I know where you can depend on getting one is on Cape Coral Island. And even then it would be very easy to miss them. One place that has always been good is the public library. Look for the white crosses the locals put up for them to perch on and the rope barrier that protects the burrow. Always stay outside the barrier. Sometimes they hear you walking around and pop out of the burrow to see what's going on. They are full-time residents so most anytime should be fine. I usually go in February though.

[jckegley]

I am going to the Everglades in Jan, maybe I will go through Cape Coral on the way back.

[mrsisu]

Very nice and crisp shot. These little owls are amazing, and relatively abundant on Cape Coral. They just sort of pop up with it possible as well to see two of them side by side.

[Photobiologist]

Neat shot! I really like those little guys!

You can also get them in prairie dog towns out west, but Cape Coral is closer & easier!

[mobiek]

Very cool bird. Terrific capture of the eyes.