I finally saw Dad! He has been hooting his amour for “Lady Love” since last October, but other than a few glimpses when being chased by crows, he has not shown himself to me. Yesterday was different, and 420 photographs later I now present to you Mr. Great Horned Owl. The happy couple expects at least twins by mid March. The female has been on the nest since at least February 10th (nine days ago).

Owls are masters of camouflage. Although I knew the male had to be perched every day within sight of the nest, finding him has been difficult. The happy couple’s home is a forest of towering white pines. All the branches mean sight lines for me towards the heavens are difficult. Even yesterday taking photographs was a challenge. I actually returned to the nesting area five hours apart (the owl had not moved) because I wanted good light. However, the owls ignored me most of the time. Thus, I waited and waited till the combination of some sun broke through the thick pine branches at the same time Mr. Great Horned Owl was willing to look in my direction.

If you would like to learn more about the nesting habits of Great Horned Owls, follow this link from the Cornell School of Ornithology. The female will not leave the nest till after the young hatch. She incubates; he hunts and guards.

Mr. Great Horned Owl (the happy, expectant father)

Mrs. Great Horned Owl (image taken nine days ago)