Great Grey Owl in Flight

I was mesmerized as I watched this grey owl complete a successful hunt, and even more excited as the owl continued to fly towards me and eventually land in a small tree only a few meters from me. All I could do was to keep snapping photos as it flew closer and closer. I had chosen my spot to sit in as I had observed the owl fly to that specific point in the meadow several times, and I was just elated when my prediction came true and the owl flew the route one more time. But this time, I was waiting for it with my camera!

The black and white copy of this photo really brings out the detail better in the owl, and isn't so harsh to look at as the grass was very bright behind the bird. I don't edit in b&w often, but I felt this was an appropriate photo for such.

Captured in Yellowstone National Park.

comments (8)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

This is the scene I've been waiting for to inject this fun fact: did you know that this owl has special tips on its wings that make for a completely silent flight? That's pretty impressive for such a large bird moving so much air. Prey definitely cannot hear it coming.

Anyways, fantastic series of wild behavior shots, Travis, one to remember for sure! Posted 5 years ago
1. travismorhardt
  
  Lion
  
  That is very interesting! Thanks for sharing that, Ferdy. I figured that they had to have some specially designed feathers or something for such a quiet flight. It truly is amazing to have them fly so close and not hear a thing! Thanks for the kind words! Posted 5 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    And its head is literally a radar, that is how it heard that little rodent probably. Posted 5 years ago

Claire Hamilton

Lion

Lot to be said for knowing your subject! Well done, great shot! Posted 5 years ago
1. travismorhardt
  
  Lion
  
  Thanks Claire! I spent a lot of time watching these birds and learning their routines, and it payed off! Posted 5 years ago

Annette Flottwell

Lion

a stunning shot, even better head on carrying his meal!! Posted 5 years ago
1. travismorhardt
  
  Lion
  
  Thank you, Annette! :) Posted 5 years ago

Msalicat

Eagle Owl

WOW!!! Posted 5 years ago

The Great grey owl

The great grey owl or great gray owl is a very large owl, documented as the world's largest species of owl by length. It is distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, and it is the only species in the genus ''Strix'' found in both Eastern and Western Hemispheres. In some areas it is also called Phantom of the North, cinereous owl, spectral owl, Lapland owl, spruce owl, bearded owl, and sooty owl.

Info 31 1

Similar species: Owls

Species identified by travismorhardt