Now that’s a hoot

Warwick resident Danny Corcoran shared these images of a mature Barred Owl and her owlet that have taken up residence in his yard. Here’s his story:
We live off of Woodside Drive in the village and first started hearing a call from the woods behind our house this past fall. We never saw her but would catch sight of a perfectly silent flash through the woods from time to time, never really getting a good look.
Two weeks ago we heard all of the squirrels and chipmunks squealing and saw her for the first time perched in a tree alongside the house. Since then she’s taken to perching on the roof right above our front door as seen in the picture. She watches the yard and swoops down on small critters without a sound.
Last week we saw baby. Very fuzzy at first and I was surprised that she took mom’s perch above our door because I wasn’t sure she’d be able to fly.
Since then they take turns in that perch. When baby is there, mom is always nearby. There may be another baby but I can’t differentiate yet as I’ve just gotten a few good shots of them. I’ve attached another spot she loves, which is our back deck. She loves to watch us through the slider.
We are able to walk just beneath them when we enter and they aren’t frightened or put off. My kids know to be quiet and respectful and love seeing them. We recently got some advice and bought an owl call that baby answers. She has a high-pitched squeak while mom is much more baritone - and loud.
They usually appear after 5 p.m. when there’s still daylight. When it gets darker they head for the trees.
We are very blessed to have this experience and my kids, Samantha 8, Nina 7, and Ryan 4, are delighted.