Kip’s Comments - February 19, 2023

Looking for Sheds and Found Other Things

Now that most of the snow is gone again (thank goodness!!), it was time for me to get out to look for antler sheds. Rather than drag this post out, I will tell you I found no sheds - nothing, not one shed.

Although I found no sheds, I did find something that really got me excited. I found my second saw-whet owl of the year! Along with the owl there was mouse on the branch next to the owl - obviously an indicator of a successful night of hunting my little saw-whet model.

Saw-whet owls do not generally fly when you find them, as long as you respect the birds. Simply shoot your photos from a distance and leave the area and the owls will likely remain on perch. I have yet to see a saw-whet owl fly, so apparently I have not been intruding on them.

I could share a number of images with you, but am opting to go with only three views as you see here.

Saw-whet Owl with Mouse - Image 791426

Saw-whet Owl with Mouse - Image 791607

Saw-whet Owl with Mouse - Image 791652

During my search I also found several owl pellets. All of the pellets were quite large and not close to where I found the saw-whet owl. I am guessing the pellets I found were from a barred or great horned owl.

Owl Pellet - Image 791325

To protect this owl, please do not ask for its location.