From Jeff Bouton
It’s that look ONLY a parent will recognize. That look and appearance that says I’ve been cooped up with a of rambunctious youg’uns for weeks and can’t wait for them to fledge!
For a short period when the young are big & near fledging, the adult female Eastern Screech-Owl sits up in the mouth of the nesting cavity throughout the day. It’s a fantastic opportunity for birders to see these otherwise difficult to see birds. This was a pleasant surprise to find this nest yesterday!
The Eastern Screech-Owl is the only screech-owl species in the US to show a gray and red morph like this somewhat disheveled female bird.
During daytime, listen for birds mobbing them. At nightime, look for something flying by with a flat face profile. Those are the bits of advice I have heard.
Thanks! Someday I’ll see them…