Crested Owl!

The first time that I saw the Crested Owl (Lophostrix cristata) in Kabalebo was in 2013. Two years later I finally managed to take a picture of him. Worth waiting for!

The Crested Owl is a medium sized owl that I have only seen in the dense vegetation of the hiking trails. The first time that I saw the Crested Owl, back in 2013, it was seen at least 8 meters up in a tree.  Probably on the hunt, often looking for large insects. Between all the leaves and branches it was difficult to take a picture of. 
But on October 27, 2015 I finally managed to take several shots of this incredible owl. That was in the afternoon. The Crested Owl was roosting at almost eye level. 

The Crested Owl is a nighttime hunter. I have only seen one so far, but sometimes they are seen in pairs too. 

The Crested Owl is not a common bird in Suriname, but since it can blend so well with its surroundings I can understand why. 

As you can see in all the pictures, the Crested Owl has an almost similar brown color as the branch and the dry leaves. A perfect camouflage during daytime. I guess I was a bit too excited as the Crested Owl became alert that it was not alone. 
Its large white eyebrows were standing straight, just like a horn. As I didn't want to disturb the bird any longer I departed after several minutes. ​

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