We drove up a washboard road to the top of a 10,000 ft. high mesa, at Land's End, Colorado this week-end. It was my boyfriend's birthday and he was hoping to fly off it (in his paraglider--not a cape) the next morning, but unfortunately we woke up to light rain and strong winds (not good for flying). Land's End is the western edge of Grand Mesa, which is the largest mesa in the world-- over 500 sq. miles of forest and pastures at an elevation of 10 to 11,000 ft.
We were awakened by a chorus of owls in the trees surrounding our tent. Varying in pitch and tone, it sounded like an urgent meeting between several members of the owl hierarchy- one sounding very stern, a younger one complaining, and other interested parties chiming in with random hoots. I had never heard more than one owl call at a time in my life. It was both comical and magical, at once-- I wish I had a recording of it to wake up to every morning. I tried to get my camera from the car, but my stealth was no match for their attention and they flew away. I did spy one of them that landed in a nearby tree. It was a magnificent creature about 2 feet tall. As omens go, it seemed like a good one.
7 comments:
I LOVE your description of the calls. It does, indeed, sound both magical and comical. When I lived in Indiana, owls used to hang out on our balcony up in the trees at night, and I loved to listen to them. One of my favorite things to hear is the soft, almost imperceptible sound of them flying in or taking off. Sometimes it's hard to tell if you've heard it or felt it!
Thanks, Gigi! How delightful to have owls hanging out near one's balcony. I love that sound they make when they are taking off/flying in. You're right-- it is hard to tell if you've heard or felt it. I think maybe it's both!
Owl harmonics... I'm on my way out the door to the end of the Mesa in search of these preposterous birds!
Where will you take us next? You are the best travel agent ever. I love the way your brilliant and observant mind works.
A parliament of owls, an exaltation of angels...
Gretchen - you and T. take us on wonderful adventures via your blog...to parts of the country that are incredibly beautiful! Thank you for always sharing! xxoo - H.
Helaire- T. is largely responsible-- he really knows where to go. One of these days we will have to come your way! xoxo
Good morning - I just had to stop by and leave you a note because you have the most wonderfully fabulous blog. I've loved reading your interesting posts, all very creative and great pictures too. What could be more perfect ? Thanks for sharing them all and best wishes...
Haven't been! Must check out. I've only driven over the mesa in passing...looks lovely for summer camping, but always so CROWDED that I've been deterred.
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