What an incredible bird!
The Great-horned Owl is common though elusive. They are solitary. They only stay with their mate during the breeding season. Its large eyes are equipped with many rods for night vision, and its pupils open wide in the dark. Although its eyes do not move, flexibility in the "atlanto-occipital join enables this owl to swivel its head more than 180 degrees to look in any direction." - Birds of the World
My first encounter with the Great-horned Owl was in Columbus, OH. I was a half mile into a 5 mile run on a road adjacent to a ravine. As I ran, I noticed a very large bird fly low enough I sensed it. Close and silent. This owl's feathers are exceptionally soft, providing superb insulation and silent flight. An unforgettable moment.
Inspired by what Wildewood neighbor Marc saw and shared, I headed to Robinson Preserve. I found the owlet and its parent in the nest. This photo was taken 2 weeks ago:
