While most folks might have thought the winter storm dump of snow meant stay home, I figured otherwise! The snow on the trees inland from Two Harbors was gorgeous. I did have to change my planned route when my first road was not yet plowed, and had an amazing amount of fresh snow and ice which was not conducive to safe driving. My plan is to repeat this afternoon!
Winter Wonderland Great Gray Owl!
Okay, how many of us enjoying throwing up? I defy anyone to say they like the process! I suspect owls have the same opinion, and given they swallow much of their smaller prey whole, the bones, fur, and other inedible parts need to come back out … as an owl pellet (Cornell School of Ornithology Link).
From a two evenings ago … this Snowy Owl was getting ready for its evening hunt, but first an owl pellet needed to be tossed.
Yesterday the weather was horrible with an Alberta Clipper (3 inches of snow plus 45 mph wind gusts), but the two days that bookended were fantastic! One day was cloudy, and one day was sunny. I am pretty certain this is the same owl. Enjoy, I know I did. This evening I was privileged to watch a peregrine falcon attack the owl for over 20 minutes!
Tuesday Snowy Owl
Thursday Snowy Owl (just a few minutes before sunset)