Owl City

With the foliage disappearing, we've had more and more sights like this one in east Carmel as of late. This Barred Owl was seen on the Maplecrest cul-du-sac in Cool Creek Estates. While still fairly young, he's no doubt well fed with the plentiful supply of ground squirrels and other small animals in the wooded areas of the 46033. These creatures generally hunt at night but when protecting a brood can venture out when it's light as this one has. With a wing span that can be up to 48 inches, it's tough to miss them when they're in flight. They also can give you a pretty good scare at 6:30 in the morning when you're walking the dog as they swoop down over your head. Next time I need a warning hoot out of this guy. Thanks to Dave Franks of Cool Creek for the photos!