Owls – NH wildlife photography
October 11, 2014
Good friend and world class wildlife rehabilitator Jane Kelly called the other day – she was releasing a young Barred Owl back into the wild after nursing it back to health, was I interested. Ok, it’s hard not to be facetious when answering that question – seeing raptors up close, having the opportunity to watch them return to their natural habitat, heck just seeing an owl instead of just hearing it – how could a person pass up that opportunity.
So this beauty, which had been hit by a car, was so ready to take off – biting Jane, clacking it’s beak ( reminded me of the sound of the alien in Predator). Jane let it go and it took off to the trees like it had been shot from a cannon. Immediately perched on a branch and started taking in it’s surroundings. What a moment.
After, Jane brought out a Eurasian eagle Owl – the largest in the owl family, which looked like a great horned owl on steroids and had the most piercing eyes I’ve ever seen .
Just another amazing experience with this lady who is so comfortable with birds of prey, birds that stir both awe and fear in most of us. Her raptor rehabilitation work is supported by visits to schools to educate the rest of us about raptors – interested, leave a comment or send me an email – I’ll connect you to the coolest raptor lady ever.
Beautifully written & wonderful photos. Jane is one of the most special beings one could be so fortunate to meet & her work is a further testament to the special gifts she possesses within. She is an exceptional teacher, nurturer , & friend. I wholeheartedly agree she is the coolest raptor lady ever & my 1st encounter with her in a similar story described above is one I know I’ll never forget.
I’m in love… Great shots & write up, as usual!! Thanks for sharing.
these are gorgeous, Jay! What a special treat. Lucy is an owl nut and she is now completely jealous. 🙂
Thanks Sarah! Which is Lucy’s favorite…I’d love to make a sweet young girl’s year start off the right way, with a print!
Jay! She had a really hard time deciding but she finally picked the second one down, the same one you used for the post heading photo. Now we are off to read more about Jane!
Just stumbled upon your blog….your story of the release that day and the kind words from Kristi made me cry….tears of joy, that is. Thank you Jay Reiter! XOXO, Jane Kelly, On The Wing