When I looked out of the window before breakfast this morning I happened to see La Dame Blanche (or even Le Monsieur Blanc) swoop down from one of the barns and perch herself on a post by Philippe’s potager. She sat there for a long time, occasionally turning her head, not even fazed when Diane the dawg trotted by with her collie boyfriend.
We have Barn Owls living in the pigeonnier (tower) but rarely see them during the day, usually only getting a view of them when they swoop out at dusk, or when the young ones settle on the bathroom window sill and gaze through the glass at us. This was a rare opportunity for us to see an adult owl close up. Unfortunately, although only about 50 metres away, the camera would not focus properly and we could not get a sharp picture. I have since been told that it's not a camera problem. Barn Owls tremble constantly; it's a special technique they use when hunting, to help remain just out of focus.
I'm so envious of your owls! I love any kind of bird of prey, but rarely if ever see owls. I love the barn owls' heart shaped faces. I once saw a snowy owl - that was exciting! -Jenn
ReplyDeleteIt was a real treat to see her so clearly this morning.
DeleteHow wonderful! Intrigued by the idea of Barn Owls trembling constantly.
ReplyDeleteMe too.
DeleteWow! I wonder what he/she was doing out in the daytime like that? What a nice surprise for you.
ReplyDeleteVery unusual to see them about here at this time of day.
DeleteAn incredible sight. It obviously didn't feel threatened.
ReplyDeleteIt must have known we were watching because we opened and shut the window but didn't seem bothered by us.
DeleteI thought April 1st had been and gone.
ReplyDeleteYou might be right, I still think the camera was faulty or perhaps there wasn't enough light.
DeleteI'm sorry to say that when I started to work on our barn, the Owls disappeared. A classic case of human interference.
ReplyDeleteLong ago in the Loire Valley near Tours, I went into an abandoned barn behind our rental cottage and disturbed a roosting French barn owl. He swooped out through the doorway and scared the merdre out of me.
ReplyDelete