Another shot from the birds of prey display in the grounds of Holy Trinity Church, hidden behind the shops in Goodramgate, in the centre of York.
The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) is the most widely distributed species of owl, and one of the most widespread of all birds, being found almost anywhere in the world except polar and desert regions, Asia north of the Alpide belt, most of Indonesia, and the Pacific islands.
It is a pale, long-winged, long-legged owl with a short squarish tail. Generally a medium-sized owl, there is considerable size variation across the subspecies. The Barn Owl measures about 25–50 cm (9.8–20 in) in overall length, with a wingspan of some 75–110 cm (30–43 in). Adult body mass is also variable, ranging from 187 to 800 g (6.6 to 28 oz), with the owls closer to the tropics being generally smaller.
The light face with its heart shape and the black eyes give the flying bird an odd and startling appearance, like a flat mask with oversized oblique black eyeslits, the ridge of feathers above the bill somewhat resembling a nose.
Favorite! Barn owls are very special! They are my favorite kind of owl and this is a perfect photo of one! I've heard they are disappearing in the States because of loss of habitat (barns). Very sad. :(
Thank you Julie, and thank you for the fav! I agree, these are beautiful birds, but living in the city I don't get to see them too often. Did you see my shot of an Eagle owl? - http://365project.org/fishers/365/2013-08-27. I was quite pleased with him too!
Thanks for the link
Thank you Graham, and thank you for the fav!
Ian
Thank you Molly - they really do have that look of wisdom.
Ian
Thank you Camille, and thank you for the fav!
Ian
Thank you Therese, they really are beautiful birds.
Ian
Thank you Ferry, glad you like it.
Ian
Thank you Colie, glad you like it.
Ian
Thank you Jacqui, and thank you for the fav!
Ian
Thank you Sarah, and thank you for the fav!
Ian
Thank you Hazel, glad you like it
Ian
Thank you Bob - not sure I would want to be too close though!
Ian
Thank you Tony, and thank you for the fav!
Ian
Thank you Laura, glad you like it!
Ian
Thank you Gill - they are such beautiful birds to get a shot of.
Ian
Thank you Lee, glad you like it!
Ian
Thank you Julie, and thank you for the fav! I agree, these are beautiful birds, but living in the city I don't get to see them too often. Did you see my shot of an Eagle owl? - http://365project.org/fishers/365/2013-08-27. I was quite pleased with him too!
Ian
Thank you Kathy - I agree, they are beautiful birds!
Ian