The antics of Burrowing Owls are always entertaining but “personality” simply oozes out of the juveniles.
1/400, f/8, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
This youngster had recently fledged and had begun to do a little exploring. On this early morning I found it on this perch just after sunrise. Thus was further away from the burrow than I’d seen any of the juveniles up to that point.
1/400, f/8, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
Within just a few minutes it gave me a variety of interesting poses – first an enthusiastic yawn…
1/500, f/8, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
and then long and drawn out wing stretch with left foot extended…
1/500, f/8, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc, natural light, not baited, set up or called in
which concluded with the wing down and partially hidden behind the rock.
Soon after this shot was taken the bird flew back to the comfort and security of the burrow and the rest of its family.
Ron
Please forgive the anthropomorphic comment, but these little jesters crack me up. Great photos!
They crack me up too, Mike – especially when I’m watching them through my lens. Nothing wrong with a little anthropomorphism now and then…
Such an enchanting little bird. Am I right in thinking you were smiling broadly the whole time? Silly question – how could you not. Thank you – I am smiling loudly here.
Elephant’s Child, “smiling” doesn’t quite describe my occasional reactions to these birds. I spent a long time watching them (the entire family) through my lens when not much was going on. But when the antics of the juvies in particular would begin I actually missed shots because I was laughting too hard. They’re hilarious at times.
What a sweetie! Thank you.
Thanks, Debbie.
I love to see its mouth open! I wish him/her well.
Maria, as far as I know, all the chicks at this burrow survived to leave the nest. Sadly though, one of the adults was killed by a car.
Great series of candid shots! The superb quality is also kinda nice!
Thanks very much, Wally.
Oh what fun! I love the last shot with the leg stretch. They have such L-O-N-G legs! Made my day. Thank you for posting once again, Ron!
I’m glad you enjoyed the images, Mikal. Agree about the legs…
Personality indeed! That first shot made me laugh out loud from the cute. The wing size looks all out of proportion to the body size in that stretch display. Love it! Thank you as always Ron.
That’s right, Chris – their wings are huge. One reason I clip so many of them in take-off shots…
This little guy is really cute. Your post reminds me that it will soon be baby bird season and that is a very welcome thought. Thanks!
Yep, baby bird season is right around the corner, Tana. I spent a couple of very cold hours this morning photographing magpies building their nest. Fun!
Looks as though these little guys get into yoga early in life…very cute post Ron.
Never thought of the yoga connection, Chuck. It works!