Barred Owl at Clifss of the Neuse

This lovely Barred Owl, Strix varia, was perched along the Spanish Moss Trail in Cliffs fo the Neuse State Park, Seven Spings North Carolina. Generally preferring to live and hunt in wooded swamp and river bottom areas, as well as mixed woodlands, these birds are only slightly smaller than the great Horned Owl.

Covering a bit more than 1000 acres of land in Wayne County, NC, the park sits along the southern banks of the Neuse River. Park amenities include hiking, camping, fishing and swimming.