I love owls. I think this is a spotted eagle-owl (Bubo africanus). I spotted it (not that that's why it's called spotted) near the airstrip on the Nyika Plateau in northern Malawi, just before dark. I stopped, dialled the ISO to 1600 and managed three photos before heading back to camp (driving after dark is not allowed). I'd been hoping to see a leopard, but this was nice compensation for not seeing the big cat. A little further on, I came across a nightjar sitting on the road, too.[Photographed 24 May 2007.]
All content © 2009 Pete McGregor
wow
ReplyDeletehow majestic. it's a great specimen. congratulations
He's a beuatiful fella alright! You were so blessed to catch him!
ReplyDeleteHe's got that rumpled, just-got-up look. Those soft feathers.
ReplyDeleteDid he swivel hs head to watch you? Gorgeous shot.
ReplyDeleteWe are fortunate to have a Tawney Frog Mouth owl residing in our garden and most evenings at twilight, he is there on the same tree branch and he turns to watch me at the log shed.
D.V.A.; Watercats: thanks! I was certainly lucky to get this chance.
ReplyDeleteZhoen, yes, I like the rumpled-up look; it does give a softer feel.
HHnB, yes, the first photo is almost identical except it's looking straight ahead. And that tawny frogmouth must be a wonderful sight. I like it when I get to recognise the same individual; it's like getting acquainted.
I dream about owls sometimes. They're said to be guardians.
ReplyDeleteMichael, they seem to figure prominently in the mythologies of so many cultures. I didn't know about their being guardians, but I can see how it arose. Thanks.
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