We had arrived at the Tundra RV Campsite in Tok, Alaska after our visit to Dawson City, YT in “Snowflake” over the “Top of the World Highway”. We had heard very mixed and dour descriptions of the Highway, which is why we decided to leave “Tigger” in Chicken, AK and make the journey in Snowflake – but that is for another blog post.
We loved this campsite for many reasons, perhaps the most important was that we were camped between tall pine trees, the screen between sites. We had a very adequate pull-through and did not have to disconnect the trailer. We could also wash our car and coach (for the immense fee of $15) and we had full hook-ups with 50amp service.
Having enjoyed out barbecued steak and salad and watched a great film, Louise then decided to investigate the curious “Screech” birdcall that we had been hearing. Louise came rushing back whispering that there were two owls in the same tree.
So I assembled my gear and we went “stalking”. The two owls had moved but turned out to be juvenile Great Horned Owls (Bubo virginianus) and were undoubtedly siblings.
The first video shows the elder owlet on the tip of a thin snag trying to keep its balance while the other owlet was in the next tree (off screen) bouncing around. During the fight for balance on the snag, the owlet breaks off the twig from the top of the snag and clearly does not know what to make of it.
The second video shows the elder owlet in a small birch tree and the second one comes to join in the fun.
The third and fourth videos show them interacting together, side by side, on the branch and then finally departing one at a time.
I hope you enjoy and find them as cute as we do.
Gear: Nikon D4s, Nikkor 600mm f/4 VRII, Nikkor TC-14 EII, Lexar Digital Film, RRS Tripod & Gimbal Head, Spotter – Louise
I love it. Those are great videos. I love the way that the owls’ heads and necks move, the way they show affection and the younger one (I presume the one on the right) looks like he/she still has some fluffy downy feathers. Keep the photos coming and keep enjoying yourselves. Joyce
Hi Louise and Richard,
Nature is so amazing but so is the technology that allows you to record such wonder. Thanks for sharing. Continue to enjoy all your special moments.
Judy.
Wonderful story and videos! Did you see Mom or Dad great horned owl? Almost like she told them to stay together, and don’t fight! Very cute when the branch snapped. Whaaat?!? Also loved when the elder needed more room for his dance moves. Randy and I watched all of these together. Great way to start our day and end yours: right outside your door. Thanks for sharing! Randy is in town this week. Perhaps we can FaceTime. Miss you! Janet