Correction to my last post — it’s official — both our owlhouses are occupied. Camera in hand, I ventured back into the yard at dusk to see whether I could get any shots of a more active owl. Well, this time Mrs. Owl made her appearance at the front owlhouse. For confirmation that it was a different owl, I checked the other house in the back of the yard. Sure enough, the owl I photographed earlier was still there. We have two!
I’m guessing this is an owl couple, given the size difference between the two birds. Mrs. Owl really filled up the doorway.
If this really is an owl couple we’ve got occupying our two owl houses, then it supports the idea that having two houses is more likely to attract owls sooner. It sure worked in our case.
Mrs. Owl didn’t seem to mind me too much, until I apparently took one step too close. She’s a beauty, though. My favorite is the side view of her. She’s big for a little thing!
I’m so excited for you, Meredith. Both are beautiful, but I’m charmed by the female’s glance. 🙂 We had an owl encounter today, too. Different species and age, though.
Thanks so much for the tip about twin digs for mother and father owl. I know someone who’s considering putting up an owl house in a relatively wooded section of suburbia, and I’ll be sure to pass along the info.
Ooh, I hope it works out! I really want to start testing this theory a bit more.
Had never heard the info re: two owl houses; very interesting. Amazing how calm they appear with you present. Almost every year, I have had screech owls nest in a natural cavity on a Red Oak – but have never been able to get the views you are experiencing. I may have to look into buying some owl houses. Love hearing their trill in the twilight hours.
I can’t wait to start hearing their unusual bird sounds. As for houses, if you are into woodworking, consider making your own. We used the plans from the Audubon Society — http://www.audubonmagazine.org/backyard/backyard0201.html — I think I’d consider making a modification to one side in order to make it a little easier to clean one day — a hinged side door instead of having to go from the top, but other than that, it’s a great design. Apparently the birds approve! We also used cedar for these houses.
WHAT???? that is so cool!!!!
Oh, how lucky for you!!
I am thrilled for you as well – what a sight to see. I’d love to do some research on what they need for a habitat and maybe make them welcome here too.
Meredith, this is so exciting! I’ve never had a resident owl, although we have some great horned owls in the neighborhood that perch near our home. Lucky, lucky girl!
HOW ADORABLE! That has got to be some gratification! If you build it they will come! LOL! Good for you for taking care of our feathered friends!
Meredith,
I saw your post shortly after you posted it. however my accessing the feed did not happen until I tried this morning. Lovely photos of these owls way to go to fill both houses. I personally do not know anyone that has owls in their boxes! I once had a Barred owl nesting in a tree on my property.
Great pics!
Wow so cool! Love owls!
This fills my heart with joy! Wonderful photos!
Hi Meredith – how amazing! We once had a great horn owl visit our garden and stay in it for a couple of days. He rested in among the autumn clematis vine. At first I thought it was a big cat up there in the arch. Your pictures are amazing