How Far Can an Owl Rotate Its Neck?

[bobhoge]

The Columbus Zoo has a nice display of raptors. I sat a while taking images of this Eastern Screech-Owl that is about 8 inches tall. I wanted to see how far he could rotate his head and neck.

Note that his tail is pointing at me!
Here he is looking way around to his left:

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Now he is looking directly to the right:

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He continued to rotate around to the right, now over 180 degrees, WOW!

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Here is a head shot facing forward

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First three photos Bob, D-100, 70-200AFS VR + 1.7TC at 200mm (inc TC)
Fourth photo Nan, D-70, 80-400VR at 400mm

Bob & Nan

 

[PGB]

I just love Owls Bob.

These are choice!

Thanks for sharing.

 

[Flew]

Very nice shots Bob & Nan. Looks like you are taking excellent advantage of your new tools. Makes a big difference, huh? 8)

 

[sommer]

Wow, owls are amazing, aren't they! I really like the last picture...I'm a sucker for a close-up and I love how in-focus the owl's left eye is. I struggle to get animals in focus. I've heard good things about the Columbus Zoo. We always go to the Toledo Zoo, which isn't terribly far from us here in mid-Michigan. Maybe we'll go there this weekend and see if I can get some good animal shots! Thanks for sharing yours!

 

[Keith]

Cool series Bob, luv owls. Looks like you had a great day!

 

[TOLady]

Cool shots.. owls are very interesting birds.