Silent Flight

Late one evening I was visiting with a group from church at a member’s home. I parked the car and began walking up the side walk to the home when I caught the smallest glimpse of something moving swiftly through the air. It was no more than a shadow but I was intrigued that it could pass so closely without any perceptible sound. I quickly followed in the direction of the tiny silent shadow. If I was not mistaken it had moved across the street and lighted in the fork of a large Oak tree, I approached carefully and to my surprise and delight my eyes beheld a small owl looking disapprovingly down at me. It was very close but did not make any attempt to fly away. I must get a photograph but my camera is three miles to the west. I get in the car and take off to get the camera. Fifteen minuets later I am turning the corner on my way back to the Oak. I am sure that the little owl is long gone but I park and camera in hand I creep slowly back to the tree! God bless me the grumpy looking little fellow is right were I left him. I proceed to take numerous photos and if there is super models in the owl world this had to be one! I was thrilled when I pick up the prints and had so many good images. I have since had many adventures with owl including having some nest right in my own front yard but I will leave those stories for another time. Just keep in mind that these wonderful little birds of prey are quite prevalent in the south Tampa area busily keeping the rodent population in check I catch a glimpse of them from time to time at while driving at night. They are truly prime example of the creative and powerful God that loves and cares for us!

Here is an excellent site created by Chris W. Johnson documenting the yearly activities of the affore mentioned creature! He has designed and built what has to be the most High Tech Owl box on the planet and can monitor the birds activities 24 hours a day!