The joy of owls

I don't know if this is my best photo of the day, but it leapt out at me as I was culling the 799 I took over the course of today. I do know that I shouldn't have been out with my viral sore throat and creaking joints in the bitter wind in the high Cotswolds this afternoon - but owls.....

When I've finished culling and processing, I'll add some more shots to my Facebook page - possibly including the green woodpecker which was anting in the garden this morning, and the hunting barn owl I happened across as I was driving home tonight.

For now though, I'm going to collapse in a heap in front of Shetland, with a medicinal glass of red wine, and a self-satisfied smile on my face.

Please do look at this full-screen, if you have the time.