This was one of the lighter mature owls. I quickly got a photo of the background which intrigued me.
On alert, the Burrowing Owl already knows where to hide easily.
The desert colors can be challenging, but I loved this one close to the road.
Burrowing Owl takes a fast chance for a flight.
Springing off his perch. They are so fast.
This Burrowing Owl was not as shy as most of them.
They have beautiful eyes. Amazing how they withstand the bright desert light and heat.
Always watching the sky for preditors.
Speedy flight, they don't fly far before landing.
Extreme light but a surprise capture! Smaller than most owls, they are very quick.
The Alfalfa king.
Loved his pudgy head! Found in the Alfalfa fields.
A different mottled feather look to this one, plus the much lighter white face.
Owls in the alfalfa fields. This one was backlit, but you get a little light from the bright sun reflecting off the light dirt. ;)
Have these owls accomplished survival? Or have they been edged out to the desert, the only workable burrowing area left? Colonies have have lessened in the past few years at a dangerous rate.
Not one step more, you!
Soaking up the rays...
Perhaps the hatchlings are still in their burrows. We did not see any, which was a disappointment, because it gets so hot for the summer. Next trip back will be over 110*!
This little guy was cute. He seemed very mature compared to the others.
Quail near the Wildlife preserve.
