This long-eared owl shot stands out to me as love the way the "Ears" look completely relaxed and at ease with my presence. I love the details in the feathers have been able to capture with these beauties.
This is one of my favorite normal owls for my part of the world, but I feel it doesn't get much love around here.
People have really fallen for the Flammulated Owl, which is less common and to me looks similar to the Long Eared, just much smaller. Not sure why the bigger, fluffier one wouldn't get a similar reception.
If you’re curious about how to recognize this species out in the wild, here’s the method I use:
Do their ears hang low? (No, except when upside down)
Do they wobble to and fro? (Yes)
Can they tie ‘em in a knot? (No)
Can they tie them in a bow? (Knot that I’m aware of, no)
Can they throw them o’er their shoulder like a continental soldier? (???)
Do their ears hang low? (Again, mostly no)
Usually works best for distinguishing between this type of owl and beagles