My goodness it has been an absolute treat to watch and document this great horned owl family this spring.
This is the second year I have known about the nest and supposedly the fourth year for the parents in this spot. Despite being heavily trafficked, they thrive in the environment and all the humans around provide the benefit of keeping predators away.
This past Thursday, the evening light was perfect at times and the owls were very active. A squirrel made the mistake of getting too close to the nest and mom leaped into action, chasing the offender away.
Afterwards, she hopped to the nest and spent some quality time with the kids. There are in fact three owlets although only two are visible in this image.