Owls and Bees

[Canon_Bob]

Hey all,

Decided to give the Burrowing Owls some attention this weekend. Has been a couple months since I last photographed them. Lots of activity out there, and had a nice morning. Here are a few. All were captured with the 300 f/4 on the 1DsMII. They were letting me get REALLY close, so that was the perfect combination.







Here are some Bees I shot with the 40D and the 180mm f/3.5L Macro. Starting to really like this combination, although I'm still getting used to it. The 40D and 1DsMII are distinctly different bodies, and lenses perform VERY differently between the two. I have to adapt to the mannerisms of both, or I mis-read the shots. They're both great, but are just different.

[mn shutterbug]

I love the owl, but how do you get him to pose with both eyes wide open?

[Canon_Bob]

I love the owl, but how do you get him to pose with both eyes wide open?

These are actually 3 different owls. They are a funny species. First, they are not nocturnal! They hunt in daylight. Second, they are tiny. These owls are barely bigger than a Blue Jay! Third, they don't live like traditional owls at all. they live in holes (in the ground) that have been vacated by other animals. It is not unusual to see them actually digging!

Here's a funny one from yesterday morning as I was heading out to my "usual" owl spot. You never know how much activity there will be with these guys. I knew I was in for a good day when I drove up and saw the sign at the entrance to the property (this property has been for sale for about 2 years now - Because these endangered owls live here, no one can build there):

[AgingEyes]

Oh man, I love your last one. Too good !!!