21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
The Barred Owl Saw Me First

I had decided to switch up my usual walking trail for a nice bike ride on one of the many Great Florida Birding Trails. This particular trail was very highly wooded area. I was nearing the end of the trail and as I was pedaling, I just happened to look up the right time. We locked eyes and I remember the experience to feel like something piercing through my soul. I immediately hit my brakes and slowly set my bike down on the ground. I back tracked on foot and was trying to find this beautiful owl that I know had seen me first and was watching me come down the trail. I eventually spotted it and was so happy to photograph this owl for my collection.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 01.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Cypress Gardens, Florida, United States of America
Copyright: © Leticia Yglesias