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

June 16, 2010

            OK, we goofed.  We actually don't have two baby owlets - we have THREE!!!  Not sure how the newly christened Othello got missed yesterday, but he can clearly be seen in the second photo below.  The lone owl in the first photo is Olive (we're assuming).  At any rate, it's NOT Oliver, previous tenant of the owl box.  I know this because I memorized his facial pattern.  Ivan and I are both 100% smitten with these little charmers.  We hope they stay a long time, but we have no control over that.  We're - at least I'm - in full protection mode.  Any verminous cats coming in our yard better have full body armor, and any Scrub jays, well, those plans are still evolving.  Hurling tennis balls at them is still a good option. 


This is Olive, the Mom
Meet (top to bottom) Opal, Oscar, & Othello
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