Owls have existed in mythology, folklore, and culture as mystifying creatures. Their camouflage, secretive nature, and nocturnal life are part of their mystique. It seems very special when nature reveals itself and we do see them. The unique characteristics that fascinate us, also make them a challenge to find and photograph.
In British Columbia, Canada we have a number of owl species that are resident or migratory, common or rare. They can be nocturnal, diurnal (daytime hunter) or both. Each species has their own distinctive adaptations and behaviour.
The Great Gray Owl, (strix nebulosa) one of my favourite owls, lives in the boreal forests of north and central BC. Being in their presence feels magical due to their size, wing span and beauty. Largest by size, but not weight, they are built of mostly feathers right down to their talons to insulate them from the snow and cold. Their antenna-like facial disc allows them to hear prey up to 60 cm (2 ft) beneath the snow. This laser-like perch, pounce and plunge hunting behaviour is special to witness and photograph.
Knowing the habitat of the Great Gray Owl is key to finding them. They prefer conifer forests and/or deciduous birch and poplar groves that border open meadows and fields. Their primary diet is voles from the meadow. They nest in broken o ! snags or abandoned nests of other big birds. I love photographing them during snowfalls where you see their unique adaptations for hunting in the snow.