Barred Owl Extravaganza!

Double D and I enjoyed such a wonderful weekend, ending it with Barbara and Barry, the devoted barred owl pair at Bluebonnet Swamp. What made it more special was meeting two couples on a birding expedition from Canada―three of them toting major camera gear. They were from the northernmost part of Canada, near the Arctic. It was the first day of their adventure and they were really hoping to see something at the swamp. However, it was a dreary day and not much happening at our favorite nature place.

All of a sudden, Barry began hooting and Barbara's muffled responses were clearly heard from inside the tree cavity. I told them to be patient, that I had a good feeling we would see Barbara. She hasn't been seen much lately, she's so devoted to her eggs right now. Sure enough, she came out of the tree, perched on the side of the hole and stared. Cameras were snapping and whirring just like a paparazzi event at the Oscar's.

We were so close, no cropping was necessary on this shot and on the next;
only resized and sharpened slightly for the blog.

After posing outside the nest, Barbara flew to a nearby cypress tree. Although the light could have been better, I was happy she was posing near some budding limbs. I had to bump my ISO to 3200 to get these, but I was able to take out most of the noise in Lightroom. Overall, I am happy with this set. I hope my sweet Canadian friends were able to get some shots. Canadians are just the nicest people!

Sharing with Eileen at Saturday's Critters and Anni at I'd Rather B' Birdin'. Thank you hosts!