Bird watching: when an owl drops in

Self-tutoring about bird encounters: the tutor mentions a welcome one with an owl.

I left at dusk for an evening walk; about 45 minutes later, having covered many blocks, I was walking up a hill on the return course. Suddenly, at about 2 o’clock (direction), I saw a shape approaching in the air, at elevation of about ten feet. At about six feet away, it angled its wings almost vertically, simultaneously braking and climbing steeply to a power wire above. As it entered that maneuver, I was able to look into its eyes.

It was likely a barred owl; I noticed no ear tufts, and barred owls are very common around here. It could also have been a short-eared owl.

The owl’s visit was such a welcome surprise, I didn’t want to make it regret dropping in. I continued on without looking much more at it. The owl remained on its same perch on the power wire as long as I could yet see it. Eventually I turned a corner, leaving it to its business.

Source:

vancouverislandfreedaily.com