Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
A Northern Saw-whet Owl

The Northern Saw-whet Owl has been the bird I have most wanted to see in the wild for many years now. A birding friend called me one day to tell me she spotted one in a park not too far from me so I rushed over there. Even when she pointed out exactly what tree it was in, it still took me a few seconds to find it as it is so tiny and still and was not making any noise. Apparently it only weighs the equivalent of 6 Oreo cookies and is smaller than a soda can. I was beyond thrilled to capture this photo.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2024
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Robbinsdale, Minnesota, United States of America
Camera: NIKON D5000
Copyright: © Jan Speak