Winter Lookout

Yellowstone National Park
                                                                         
The elusive and beautiful Great Gray Owl is an extraordinary hunter, even in harsh winter conditions. From high perches in the forest canopy, it can hear mice and voles moving beneath the snow. Using silent flight, it zeroes in on its target, breaks through the snow’s surface, and captures its prey. Its specialized facial disc channels sound with remarkable precision, guiding the owl as it sweeps toward the ground. Great Gray Owls remain in Yellowstone until the snow becomes too deep—usually around 20 inches—before migrating south in search of better hunting grounds.
 
Edition of 125