Predator and prey

Another photo taken on March 21st - the best day for seeing this Northern Hawk Owl. We were unbelievably lucky to get some amazing, close views - the owl has only been seen very high up in extremely tall trees ever since that day, from what I have seen myself and from what others are reporting. You can make out the talons that are tightly clutching this little Meadow Vole that the owl caught for a snack.

The Northern Hawk Owl is a medium-sized owl, about 35 centimetres (14 inches) long. It is rare to uncommon in Alberta, year round. Apparently, it is one of Alberta's most sought-after birds by birders.

www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Hawk_Owl/id/ac

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Hawk-Owl