Down by the river, an owl, a heron and their tea

[Paddy]

Went for a stroll with camera and much treasured long lens. Hearing a flap of wing above drew my attention to the Powerful Owl. Stunning bird and what a gaze. Don't know if it's last nights leftovers or an afternoon hunt. The White-faced Heron further downstream was also enjoying tea.

Both shots with Canon 500D and Canon EF 100-400 F5.6L

Did I say that I love my lens?

Suggestions most welcome.

Higher res versions at my Flickr page (http://www.flickr.com/photos/patrick_k59/)

[M54]

What fantastic catches, and with their dinner too.

Well done Paddy.:thumbsup:

P.S. You like that lens, don't you.:lol:

[leon]

Ah Paddy there is nothing nicer than a bird in the Lens, beautiful captures.

Leon

Yea, you did say you liked your lens. Lol

[bloodhound31]

Paddy, I love your lens too mate! That owl is stunning!

Baz.

[hotspur]

Both outstanding natural history images-the powerful owl,is a winner.

[gary]

Hi Paddy,

A couple of great captures from a productive outing. It looks like it was all happening.

[Jeffkop]

Bit late on this thread ... GREAT images Paddy ... GREAT. Absolutley the right place at the right time ... especially the owl !!!!

Look after that lense mate ... its working a treat.

[niko]

Great images Paddy.

I just love the powerful owl. Apparently they will often fly around with a bit of possum clutched in a talon - I assume they just wanna show how tought they are!

niko

[Paddy]

Thanks everyone, I really appreciate your replies. I am just stunned by the Owl, such a privilege to see it. And Nick, I reckon you're spot on about the tough look. It is fairly intimidating seeing such a big bird with a slab of mangled flesh in its talons.