Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Animal Wednesday - Short-eared Owl

Last evening we went to an area near here that you can usually find Short-eared Owls during winter. They are such lively little (15" or 38cm) owls. They course across weedy fields in search for their prey. They are so active if you find an area where they hunt they are easy to see when they come out at dark.

Unfortunately we found one that was dead by the side of the road. It must have been hit by a vehicle. They look like a good sized bird when they are soaring but when you see one up close you can see that they are actually small. They appear to be all wings.
I took this opportunity to paint a couple of those wing feathers. Birding sometimes offers sad situations. I tried to make the best of it by honoring the little owl with a painting.
I want to wish you all a Happy Animal Wednesday.

13 comments:

Cris, Artist in Oregon said...

Ah how sad. but the feathers you did are wonderful. I have yet to see an owl here. Something I wish to see too.

Katiejane said...

I have never seen a live owl but what a treat that would be. So sad about the on on the side of the road. Your feathers look so real.

Teri said...

Beautiful feathers and tribute to the owls. So lovingly done Lisa.

HAW

Cheryl said...

So sad Lisa :(

Lovely painting of the feathers.
I collect feathers, along with little Poppi. We have a couple of tawny owl feathers in our pot.

Tku for honouring little owl :)

Quiet Paths said...

Oh, that is sad one was hit. I hate that. Pretty feathers! Such an eye for detail you have.

steviewren said...

Sad story, but your feathers are really pretty. I've never seen an owl in flight. I would love to.

Q said...

Dear Lisa,
It is always so sad to see animals killed by cars...so very sad, Short-eared Owls are darling....your painting of the Owl's feathers is a very lovely tribute.
You have good karma!
Owls have much to teach us.
Sherry

Robin said...

Lisa....I just cried and cried when I read your post!~ (Yes, I confess to being very emotional when it comes to animals..)
I ADORE Owls.....and it saddens me to confess that in all my travels, world-wide....I have never seen an Owl....in the *wild*....in Zoos, yes...but never at night, in a forest or someone's backyard. Your art ALWAYS inspires me....as sad as this is, those feathers are gorgeous....

This is the BEST tribute one could do for a fallen bird. You are pretty darn awesome and I am so happy we have become friends!

Love,

♥ Robin ♥

marianne said...

Beautiful tribute to a very special bird!
I don't know these little owls and I have seen a white owl flying at night. That all I have seen in my life but I guess I have to be thankful for that!

Have a wonderful day♥

Mim said...

So sorry to hear about the poor little owl - they are such awesome birds. But you did a beautiful painting of those feathers

Julie said...

Beautiful tribute to the little bird. Sad. Gorgeous feather painting, Lisa!

Deb said...

How beautiful to honour the sweet owl you spotted with such a wonderful painting xo

yoon see said...

Such fabulous feathers in great details!
Your owls thoughts are great to be shared here!