When I posted the Great Horned Owl pic yesterday, I had no idea what the next day would bring. I heard that a Snowy Owl was being seen in Orange County, perhaps for the first time ever. So of course I had to drive down and try to find it! (I had once flown all the way to Colorado to see one, after all!) As you can see, I was successful...I was so happy to find it. This is likely a female, and is definitely young, based on how much black striping is in the plumage. It is very unusual for this species to wander this far south, and I hope she finds her way home in the future! 1/3/22 www.sparhawkphotography.com
I had heard that there were two Great Horned Owls down at San Jacinto Wildlife Area. I hiked all over the place looking for them, and then as I was driving out, boom, there they were, only two trees apart! This is one of them--I liked how he seemed to be looking out, semi-hidden, as if he was stoically keeping an eye on his kingdom. 1/2/22 www.sparhawkphotography.com
As I type this, it is 8 minutes into 2023! I hear a few loud booms out there, and rain is pelting my porch. Inside it's been a quiet evening, dry and safe. Guess I AM an old fogey after all! That notwithstanding, I look forward to a new year, new beginnings, new adventures. I wish the same for all of you. Happy 2023! 1/1/23 www.sparhawkphotography.com
