There are many wonderful creatures that I encounter while hiking in our local parks, particularly Patrick Eagan Park. One of my favorites is the barred owl, one of the only owls you'll see hunting in the daytime (and also the only owl with dark eyes). I'll often hear a few faint hoots, and then see the owl flying through the trees. When I'm very lucky the owl flies a short distance and then watches me from a nearby branch.
It's hard to get a good picture of them, but I've been fortunate recently and have gotten a couple of really good photos.
