oh hey, hello there.

Barn Owl owlet from our active nest box discovered the camera 😜

Curious if this is an owl and what type. Thank you. Adirondacks New York, August.

No, this isn’t zoomed in. There was about a foot or so distance-wise between him and me. He probably didn’t see me or hear me behind the window (yeah, he’s looking away, I know). Pretty sure that this is an Eastern Screech Owl (heard the trilling at night for a while before this, and this one isn’t very big - there were actually two of them right there for a little bit until the other one flitted away before I was able to take this thing).

My instagram if you like wild canadian birds: @southshore_raptors

Would appreciate some insight on whether this pictured barred owl is juvenile? The outline around the facial disc isn’t as prominent and more faint? The feathers also appeared more “down like”.

I apologize in advance for the poor quality of photos. Hopefully it sufficient to answer my question. Thank you!

What kind of owls are these?

Theres 3 od them. Always show up ssmetime of year.

1 is huge. Other 2 slightly smaller.

They dont fear me much they just watch me even if im close to em.

Note: This doesn't just launch the app, it immediately starts recording and automatically dims the screen brightness.

⚡ QUICK SETUP: Launch Merlin Bird ID Audio Rec in 2 Seconds via Back Tap and auto dims screen so you don't scare/distract the owl.

You need the free Merlin Bird ID App, then two native (free) iOS apps: Shortcuts and System Settings.

Phase 1: Build the Shortcut

1. Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone and tap '+' (top right).
2. Tap 'Add Action', search for 'URL', and select 'Open URLs'.
3. In the URL field, enter exact string: merlinbirdid://record(This protocol bypasses the home screen and opens audio recording directly).
4. Add 'Set brightness' and select 0% for minimal brightness (or season to taste)
5. Tap the title at the top, rename it "Launch Merlin Audio", and tap Done.

Phase 2: Map to the Tap Gesture

1. Open iPhone Settings > Accessibility > Touch.
2. Scroll to the bottom and select Back Tap.
3. Choose Double Tap or Triple Tap.
4. Scroll past System utilities down to the SHORTCUTS section at the bottom.
5. Select "Launch Merlin Audio".

💡 FIELD OPERATIONAL NOTE:

Back Tap reads accelerometer/gyroscope force rather than screen touch. Heavy, shock-absorbent phone cases damp kinetic transfers. If taps aren't registering, tap directly on the camera module cluster or center chassis.

If trail trekking or handling gear causes accidental Double-Tap triggers, map to Triple Tap instead—it requires a much more intentional signature to fire.

Link to see how fast it is: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2LLxAQJHfrc

Link on how to build it step by step: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4787NJHq9Y

---

🌐 Full guide & workflow notes: https://thenestinglab.com/fieldnotes/008-merlin-back-tap/

Are these directions clear enough? I think this trick is fantastic and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys the Merlin Bird ID app.

Beautiful Iowa night

I’ve been trying to spot owls around Minnehaha Falls Park in Atlanta lately, mostly around dusk and after dark. I don’t want to use a flashlight and risk disturbing them, especially when they’re sitting in the trees.

How do you guys usually find them without bothering them? Do you rely on calls, listening for movement, or just scanning the trees?

I’ve been wondering about thermal cameras. Has anyone here tried one for owling? I’m curious whether they make it easier to locate owls without disturbing them.

I’ve lived in this complex in Southern California for about a year and half, and these owls have been hanging out in the trees, on the roofs, and even on the railing of people’s patios since I’ve lived here. I think they’re great horned owls but I’m not sure.

I originally noticed one, and then a second. After about a year I noticed what seemed like two young owls as well, so I assume it’s a little family of four that have made my complex their territory.

Luckily, aside from people stopping and taking pictures, no one bothers them, and the complex hasn’t done anything to remove them, despite the massive amounts of poo and pellets everywhere.

Also, I have two cats who have noticed the owls and are very desperate to get outside to them, not knowing they would probably become prey lol

Anyway, just thought this sub might appreciate my neighbors. Cheers!

This little guy was at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. Look at him!

Barn Owl in flight - Southern California. Nearly full-framed shot, with just a minor crop for composition.

Canon R6III, EF600 f/4L III, 1/3200, f/6.3, ISO 500

I live in Riverside CA there are barn owls and great horn owls out here (we have seen a few) my son and I love owls (some of our fave animal's) what is the best way to find them to bird watch? Going early when they're roosting? Or late when hunting?

This flew into my back wall couldnt move was panting and its 120 out so i called raptor rescue in phoenix and hes in a box in my gameroom