As I walked slowly toward a fellow photographer pointing her camera deep into the woods, I suspected that she was looking at an owl. In a quiet voice, she explained to me where the Barred Owl (Strix varia) was perched. There were a lot of branches and vegetation between us and the owl, but eventually I was able to spot the owl.
Initially the owl was facing directly in our direction, but then shifted its body to the side, all the time watching us from behind the branches. I stretched and bent as I searched for a visual tunnel that would give me an unobstructed shot of the owl, but couldn’t find one. These are the best shots I could manage before the owl flew deeper into the woods. I think they help to give you an idea of the beauty and mystery of this elusive creature.
Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
He blends in pretty well.
Owls are just too cool, aren’t they? Hiding in plain sight fully aware you’re there.
That first photo is so appealing. The greens draped across it only add to the sense of mystery inherent in these creatures. It’s a beautiful bird.
My only shots of Barred Owls hiding in trees are not nearly this clear. Great shots!
WOW! I was blown away! and Jealous! I’ve never seen an owl in nature!
This is award winning! The eyes are so spooky! There’s just a tint of red in the background by the tail That just adds a bit of mystery and bright color
Well done!
They sure know how to hide.
One very well camouflaged owl. It is amazing how you can be looking through the woods and not seeing them, yet they are right there, looking straight at you.
Owls are so secretive, generally they keep silent and still. If they don’t make noise or move, they are almost impossible to find.
These are beautiful little birds and just a glimpse is a gift.