Short eared owl perched on a post at Skagit Wildlife Area, Samish Unit, near Edison, Washington.

This short eared owl perched right in front of my group on a South Sound Bird Alliance field trip to the Skagit area in January, 2026. The Samish Unit of the Skagit Wildlife Area is a hotspot to see these owls during the winter, and it is normal to see many birders and photographers along the road, waiting for the owls to appear. These owls are often active during the day, and this is a great location to watch the drama between them and their rivals, the Northern Harriers.

Taken with my iPhone 14 through a friend's spotting scope.