19th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Eurasian Scops Owl Hidden in Plain Sight

Scops Owls are well-camouflaged creatures. Their light-gray, brownish hues allow them to become nearly invisible when they place themselves against the bark of a tree. This ability to obscure themselves helps them stay out of the way of large predators. Humorously, this owl looks as if it’s winking to the camera as to not disclose its location to local prey.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2019
Date Uploaded: 11.2021
Photo Location: Near Seoni, India
Camera: Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
Copyright: © Nathan Myhrvold