Barred Owlet in window well
If you follow us on Facebook or on YouTube, then you were definitely part of the excitement on Tuesday when we had a Barred Owlet in our window well.
I thought today would be a good day to feature this post as a way to celebrate Earth Day!
I get these Barred Owlets in my window wells every year. It is a total treat and then some. Their parents lay eggs in late February or Early March and they hatch about 4 weeks later. Both parents take care of the nest and Barred owls actually mate for life (about 18 years) – they are territorial and non-migratory so they end up nesting in the same tree if it has proved suitable before – LUCKY ME!
These owlets end up in my window wells when they are learning to fly – which is about 4-5 weeks after they hatch. Once they have learned to fly, though, I don’t see them around anymore.
The Warner Nature Center has an awesome Q & A about Barred Owls, if you’re interested in checking it out.
Here’s a video I took of the cats checking out the owlet. Please know that the lights were off in my basement, so the owlet couldn’t see us (I know this might not make sense, especially since owls see well in the dark – but not when it is light outside). He was not frightened by the cats. After 4 years of this – I know what a frightened owlet looks like – mouth open, wings spreadout (to look bigger) – this little guy was learning a lesson of flying out of a hole.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Pwh74gvDqE[/youtube]
If you want to see more photos – here is a link to my personal Facebook page where the album is located.
Barred Owlet on my front stoop 4-19-11
Barred Owlet up close and personal 4-19-11
Barred Owlet back in the tree 4-19-11
Owls are absolutely gorgeous! That close up makes me just want to pet it…
Wow how lucky are you to experience this every year. they are beautiful owls. So you have 2 ragdolls do they get on well as i have a 14month old male ragdoll and we are thinking of maybe getting a female ragdoll. What do you think. Anyfeed back i would appreciate.
I totally agree! I so love it – saw two babies last night – so fun!
Yes, I have two Ragdolls – I responded to your other comment as well. I have two males. They get along very well. My mom has two males that also get along very well. My Aunt has a male and a female that get along well too.
Wow can I have your permission to paint one of those photos?
Of course.
TY, with your photography skills it should turn out pretty good.