I got a tip for a LEO winter roost and sped over when I got the chance. There were no less than 10 owls in the tree! Apparently this specific spot has seen up to 50-60 owls in some years. What’s incredible is that this willow tree is right next to a primary school in the outskirts of a small city. There are people coming and going all the time. People know the owls are there and come have a look but they stay unbothered (they do peek at you lazily though). I really wonder why they picked this specific spot, it’s really unexpected given how busy and loud it gets.

Here is a shot of another two amigos in the group:

And one more where I felt like going a bit more artsy:

  • anon6789@lemmy.world
    7·
    12 hours ago

    Very cool! LEO is one of my favs, but I have yet to see a live one.

    They are one of the more social species, as you saw, where they don’t mind roosting together.

    I keep meaning to do a post on this small Serbian town that gets taken over by them every year and they can have over 100 in a single tree. It must be amazing!

    • Foreigner@lemmy.worldOP
      7·
      10 hours ago

      Hey anon, if you ever find yourself in the east of France during winter or some reason, I know a spot ;) what I found interesting was one or two birds would turn their heads to follow you with squinted eyes, while the others stood still. I’m guessing they might take turns as lookouts? I hope you get to see one live soon, they’re really charming fellas.

      I keep meaning to do a post on this small Serbian town that gets taken over by them every year and they can have over 100 in a single tree. It must be amazing!

      I’ve seen a video by a photographer about this place. I would love to see a post on it here!

      • anon6789@lemmy.world
        5·
        8 hours ago

        I don’t know much about their behavior in groups. That would be a good subject to explore, as it’s not very typical owl behavior. I would think someone has to have written something. I’ll have to try to remember this.

        I recall I bookmarked a bunch of stuff on the city that seems to be the big hub of European LEOs. I think I was waiting until closer to the time it actually happened but then I forgot 😁

        Visiting France would be fun! With or without owls. Lots of great food and history, and all the French people I meet on here have been wonderful. I will keep you and the willow tree of owls in mind!