owl identification

[canesisters]

Does anyone know of a web site that could help me identify an owl?
I got a glimpse of one the other night. I was putting some hay in the run for the girls to find the next morning and heard something hit the ground near by. By the time I got a flashlight, there was nothing to see. I looked up in the trees and saw an owl. I only got a quick look but he was grey, about the size of my 2 fists together, no ear tufts that I noticed. He blinked at me and flew off, I lost him in the trees.
I assume the thump I heard was him catching (or trying to catch something) in the woods. He's smaller than my chickens so I'm not concerned about their safety - unless he's actually very young and still growing.

 

[Godsgrl]

Your little friend sounds like a screech owl. They do have ear tufts, but they could have lowered where you couldn't see them. They are fierce little critters, but I wouldn't worry unless you have chicks.

http://www.google.com/imgres?q=scre...&ndsp=25&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0,i:141&tx=38&ty=73

 

[kellanv]

Could also be a barn owl. No ear tufts tho they are usually brown.

 

[Habibs Hens]

could be a Gray morph with the tufts lowered

 

[centrarchid]

Saw-whet owl. Little guy lacking eartuffs but only size of one of my fist.

 

[canesisters]

Sooo.... should I be concerned??

 

[centrarchid]

No

 

[buckabucka]

I love owls! Here's mine, speaking with a metal chicken.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/gallery/image/view/id/4898030/album/5995251

I hope the link works. The new site is not entirely mobile-friendly.

 

[buckabucka]

You may have to go back one photo from the link.

 

[tellynpeep]

LOVE that barred owl pic! I have similar ones of them in the winter, sitting on my fence posts. I think when the snow is deep and game is scarce they will hunt during the day as well.