Stygian Owl (Asio stygius) - 30Dec2016

Although this species is relatively large and widespread, it is not easy to find and especially in Cuba according to the guide we had.  We got lucky at the hotel we were staying at talking to the restaurant staff they said sometimes a big owl would perch in the palm in the courtyard.  We actually were looking for Barn Owls and did not expect this one.  It was actively feeding looking at the bats flying around so it is probably safe to assume that is why it hangs out up at the top of a huge palm.  Getting a decent enough light at the top of the palm was tough and this photo was the best I could do as flash would not reach it.  The ear tufts were present but were not up when I took most of my passable photos.