Concentration

This gorgeous Great Gray Owl was perched just above one of the massive, iron gates that leads into the Owl aviary at the Calgary Zoo. As each Zoo visitor opened the gate and entered the aviary, this owl would turn its head and peer downwards, watching all the movement. I really like the feather pattern around those amazing, piercing eyes. No matter how many times I see these owls, I am always in complete awe when I am lucky enough to be standing so close with nothing between the two of us. This species of owl tends to be quite approachable in the wild in Alberta. It is the largest owl in Alberta, but the Snowy Owl and Great Horned Owls are heavier.