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

Feb 21, 2010

        Ivan and I are pleased to report that, at 6:05PM, our WSO, whom I'm naming Oliver/Opal, flew from the box after spending, literally, 10 minutes watching Ivan and me as we sat, transfixed, gazing at the top of his/her head and eyes.  S/He stood very still for 9 minutes, allowing us a view of only the very top of his/her head.  Then s/he became alert, eyes open, looking up, then left, right.  Finally, little claws appeared at the bottom edge of the opening and the owl's entire - and, may I say, gorgeous - head appeared, filling the opening.  Within seconds, s/he flew to his/her right . . . and disappeared into the evening.  We watched the opening of the box for an additional 5 minutes, hoping that a second owl would appear, then fly away.  Alas and alack, we have but one owl in the box.
Posted by at