Owl takes up residence at Livonia mans home

[Donna]

Phil Sattler Jr. isn't a big-time bird-watcher with binoculars and books, but he's taken enough nature walks to know most owls like to snooze in trees, not the eaves of homes.

That's why the Livonia resident grabbed his camera Jan. 11 and got a picture of the Eastern Screech Owl taking a nap about 11 a.m. in the eaves of his house on Louisiana near Farmington and Joy roads.

“The only thing I can think of is he was searching for warmth,� said Sattler, 30, adding the owl was tucked up under the eaves near the chimney, “It was the day before it started warming up.�

Sattler said the owl was there most of the day, but hasn't been back since.

He said the owl was probably sleeping because he didn't notice him coming within a few feet of him with his camera to get a photograph. It wasn't until Sattler tossed some snow in the owl's direction that he turned to look at the camera.

Sattler said he looked up the owl's description on the Internet to determine he was an Eastern Screech Owl, found in nearly every habitat throughout the eastern United States and southern Canada. Eastern Screech Owls are common in urban as well as rural areas and readily nest in tree cavities.

Their coloring and markings help them to blend in with trees, Sattler said.

According to the Cornell University Lab of Ornithology Web site, the Eastern Screech Owl eats a variety of small animals.

It stalks its prey by sitting and waiting. It hunts at night and in the evening and occasionally during the day. Eastern Screech Owl pairs usually are monogamous and remain together for life.

[valhalla]

Very Cool!     FYI, Ruby (RSH) is in the tree across the road - must be looking for breakfast!   

[Donna]

Very Cool!     FYI, Ruby (RSH) is in the tree across the road - must be looking for breakfast!   

Oh boy...look out lil critters and birds!!

[valhalla]

Very Cool!     FYI, Ruby (RSH) is in the tree across the road - must be looking for breakfast!   

Oh boy...look out lil critters and birds!!

You Betcha!  I saw her hunting, too!  Yum!