In 2008, we put up a Screech Owl nest box in our back yard. Last summer we were thrilled to realize that a pair of Western Screech Owls had indeed nested in our yard, but not in the box. They used the box, just not for eggs and young. This blog follows their life in our yard, and, sometimes, in their box. We named the female, Olive and her mate, Oliver. I hope you will enjoy reading the ongoing story of this charming family.

Monday, November 1, 2010

April 16, 2010

       I took 2 photos of Olive last night.  She first appeared at the opening of her box pretty early, leading me to wonder if the box gets hot, now that the weather has become very pleasant. Within seconds of her appearance at the opening, her neighbor, a nesting Oak titmouse, set up a fearsome racket.  Olive looked like she simply could not care less.  That's the first photo - "Listening to the titmouse."  After a couple of minutes, she realized that the source of the scolding was flying around right outside her box.  She then became extra alert and leaned way outside the box in what seemed like an attempt to zero in on the location of the titmouse.  Might this be a first course of her supper . . . ?
         Today - Friday - isn't a "Check-the-box-for-eggs" day, so the box will remain closed and mysterious.  She does remain the cutest owl that has ever lived in our yard.
LISTENING TO the Titmouse
LOOKING FOR the Titmouse!