Verreaux's Eagle-Owl ( Giant Eagle-Owl )

[Geoffrey Montagu]

Set out early in the morning recently with our guide in Botswana looking for birds, and at one point he stops, backs up and spots two Verreaux's Eagle-Owls. Within moments they had taken off, but landed not too far away in a tree. I was able to capture some images of both of them. These Owls have distinctive pink eyelids. A life for me as were most of the birds we saw. C&C welcome.

D500, Sigma 150-600mm @ 600mm, 1/640s, f 5.6, HH, ISO 3600.

Geoffrey




http://https://500px.com/geoffreymontagu (http://https://500px.com/geoffreymontagu)

[Steen Torner]

Remarkable bird with the pink eyelids. To me, the image seems a bit too much sharpened which has also has affected the noise (especially in the eyes).
Obviously, I would have preferred less leaves, especially the one on top of its head. However, this is where it sat ... ; - )
Regards Steen

[Isaac Grant]

Great bird but agree that where it sat did not do you any favors. Love the look on its face and you have great eye contact. I would increase the brightness a touch and also add some contrast.

[gail bisson]

I hope you guys had a great trip! Am happy to see your images.
A beautiful, fairly clear look at this gorgeous owl. The pink eyelids are killer. Great look at the talons.
I have seen this bird three times and have never had as clear a shot of the bird as you got.
I think this image needs a bit more TLC in PP.
I would back off on the sharpening, add a bit of warmth to the overall image and brighten the bird slightly.
Nice one Geoffrey,
Gail

[John Mack]

Very cool looking owl. Never have heard of one until right now. I like how this shows the environment that you observed the bird in.

[Eric Dienesch]

Very cool looking owl. Never have heard of one until right now. I like how this shows the environment that you observed the bird in.
just my words... and thank you for showing this owl.