Great Horned Owl chick in a hay barn, Antelope Island State Park, Davis County, UtahGreat Horned Owl chick in a hay barn – Nikon D810, f8, 1/250, ISO 400, -0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited

Normally I’d prefer that my bird images were taken in natural locations, in natural light without visible reminders of the “hand of man” but I feel like I must remember that birds are creatures of free will, that they go where ever they want to and that many species will take advantage of nest boxes built and provided by humans.

This portrait of a Great Horned Owl chick in a hay barn might not have been taken in the most aesthetically pleasing location but I don’t think the owlet gives a hoot about the rusty iron beams and corrugated metal walls. Because the adult owls used the man made nest box this owlet has had a safe, dry location while it learns to use its wings and will grow up to become one of the most powerful predators of the sky.

The setting might not be perfect but I couldn’t stop myself from taking images of this young Great Horned Owl with its large, lemony yellow eyes, tiny ear tufts and super fluffy looking plumage. How could I resist photographing such a regal looking creature?

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to view more of my Great Horned Owl photos plus facts and information about this species.