Last night I went to check if the Short-eared Owls were still at the
North Branch spray fields. About 5:02PM, a male Short-eared made an
appearance, briefly, and then flying out of view to my left. I
wondered where it went and then I turned around and there it was less
than 50m from me coursing over the grassy field just to the left of
the historic cemetery.  The bird was soon hit by an immature
Sharp-shinned Hawk, but did not seem to be deterred, as it continued
hunting at a close range. Suddenly, it dropped to the ground on some
prey item and promptly turned to look right at me!  This pale hunter
stayed a few moments longer -- flapping and gliding low and then going
up above the treetops, displaying its long wings and then back toward
the spray fields.  What a display of majestic beauty and grace!  Also,
while viewing this bird a Great Horned Owl called from across the
spray fields. You have to love owls in winter!

David

-- 
David Yeany II
109.5 Pennsylvania Ave
Cumberland, MD 21502
Cell: (814) 221-4361