April 20, 2019

Location: Vero Beach, Memorial Island

We are a pair of Eastern Screech Owl
Although it looks like a mom baby-feeding
In fact we are both adults and we are
Pair-bonding by allopreening.

Sources: Social Behavior of North American Owls

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

April 19, 2019

Location: Vero Beach, Memorial Island

I'm an adult Eastern Screech Owl
Trying to chill during the day.
Unfortunately our peace was disturbed
By incredibly annoying Blue Jays!

Note: In the Pish-free Birding class that we teach, one method of finding birds without using calls that we talk about is to let other birds tell you what is there. This picture is a great example of that - While playing Pokemon, my friend Rhett heard some Blue Jays screaming their heads off. Eventually, he realized that there was this pair of very well hidden Eastern Screech Owls sitting in the tree above the bench in the park. Although the Owls were minding their own business, eventually they got tired of being annoyed by the Blue Jays and flew off. Fortunately, I was able to snap a couple pictures before they left. Thanks to Rhett for the great find!

Sources: Cornell Lab All About Birds: What’s Going On When I See Little Birds Going After A Big Bird?

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

September 27, 2017

Location: Titusville, Enchanted Forest

I am an Eastern Screech Owl,
I can be reddish-brown or gray.
I'll eat anything from mice to bunnies,
And even song birds and Blue Jays.

Sources: Cornell Labs - Eastern Screech Owl

Photo and text © 2017 Dee Fairbanks Simpson