STRIX VARIA

Barred Owl Photography

Barred Owls are another North American species I’ve been fortunate to photograph during my trips to Calgary in Canada. My first encounter came in March 2024, while Great Grey Owls were the main focus of the trip.

The owl was quietly roosting amongst the trees just back from the road and was remarkably well camouflaged despite being quite close. I was able to spend some time creating a few different compositions before quietly moving on and leaving the bird undisturbed. It was a great example of just how easily an owl can disappear into its surroundings — even when you know exactly where it is.

I returned to Calgary the following year and was lucky enough to find another Barred Owl, giving me a second opportunity to photograph this distinctive species.

Like many woodland owls, finding them during daylight is often as much about careful observation as photography. Their plumage blends beautifully into the surrounding trees, making the moment you finally pick one out particularly rewarding.

The gallery below brings together my favourite Barred Owl images from both Canadian trips, all photographed ethically and without baiting.