They are not unusual to hear, or even see,if one has the patience, for these beautiful creatures inhabit the entire country. They do not have horns. They have two tufts of feathers that can be imagined as horns.
Two of them came to our old live oak trees early this morning. The sound of one awakened me about five AM. I found that I didn't have a decent flashlight to spotlight the guy. I have done that before. He had a low voice. Definitely a bass. His call was persistent. There was silence for a little while and the call began again. This time a second call chimed in. It was a soothing alto voice. The two carried on chit-chat for quite awhile. When I went to retrieve the paper the sounds disappeared. I had disturbed their courtship conversation. After daylight I searched the trees but they were gone. They'll be back,for those giant live oak trees are true owl trees.
These guys are great hunters at night. They rid us of snakes, rats, mice, rabbits, skunks, birds of all kinds.... and children left unattended in the park. (Just kidding. It sounded good.) They use other bird's facilities as nests. It is a bit early for that. It is strange how a soft call like that of the great-horned can awaken a person. Then you begin listening for it to repeat. It is addictive and will also rob one's sleep.
Did you know the OWL is a Bible bird? It is. Job 30:29; Isaiah 13:21;Psalm 102:6; Micah 1:8;Isaiah 34:11...and there are others.
I will close. Not so sure you give a hoot.
