Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Great Gray owl siblings

This image captures a playful moment in the dense boreal forest, featuring two juvenile great gray owl siblings perched close together, their piercing yellow eyes fixed on the camera. There was a third sibling, just out of frame, adding to the lively scene. The three owlets were hopping from branch to branch in the same tree, playing without purpose other than sheer joy. As the third owlet flew across their line of sight—from a branch to their left to one on the right—these two paused to follow its movement, briefly aligning their gaze straight at the camera. This rare moment offers a glimpse into the playful and curious nature of these young predators as they explore their woodland home.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2023
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Logan lake, Canada
Copyright: © protik hossain