Sometimes Heard - Rarely Seen

In October a diminutive little owl showed up on one of the trail cameras. 

Aegolius acadicus - the Northern Saw-Whet Owl - paid a visit to the same location just a few weeks ago.  If you look carefully you might just be able to spot him (or is it her?) in this picture. 

click on the images for a closer look

 

It's not easy as this is the smallest owl in eastern North America and among the smallest on the continent measuring 7-8½ inches in length and weighing-in at a whopping 3 ounces – give or take. 

This is a better photo and there is no mistaking the identification judging from the size of the bird, the lack of ear tufts and a proportionately large head and prominent facial disk. 

I'll have to keep a sharp eye out for this little bird as I've learned they prefer to roost in dense conifer stands just above eye level and near the trunk of a tree.  Supposedly they can be quite tame and approachable in the daytime – if you can find one.