Each year I have been, there have been a few owls in the mix at Magee Marsh during the Biggest Week in American Birding in May. This year there were three. This Eastern Screech Owl. It, or another like it, have been along the same section of the boardwalk each year. In past years it has been pretty reliable, but this year it was only found once that I am aware of.

We also had Great Horned Owl chicks again this year, though at the extreme far end of the marsh from where they were last year. And we had a surprise visit from a Long-eared Owl. Considering his reception (a crowd of several hundred birders gawking at him over several hours on the boardwalk under him), he is unlikely to return any time soon. 🙁

My Screech Owl tested the limits of the Canon SX50HS. It was a ways off, and in poor light. I am happy of have gotten this good a shot. 1800mm equivalent field of view. f6.5 @ 1/200th @ ISO 800. Program with iContrast and Auto Shadow Control. -1/3EV exposure compensation. Processed in Lightroom for Intensity, clarity, and sharpness.