I've had the rare opportunity to spend some time with a Pygmy owl lately, inhospitable habitat. A few days ago, right after I arrived, a small bird flew through the air and landed in a tree near me on the road. These owls are so tiny, one has to look hard through the branches to find them at times. spotted the owl and was able to take a few shots before it took off, heading right towards me! did not know that the pygmy had a vole in its clutches. The owl flew low over the road and could feel the air pressure of the wings as it flew within 18" of my leg. That was the beginning of my new lessons of learning some of the behaviors of these owls. This owl has a routine and a healthy appetite. It caught 5 voles during the course of the day and stashed them in a tree cavity.
I love this shot because it is so dramatic with the owl coming head on. Technically, it isn't perfect but I've seen very few great flight shots with the Pygmy owl.