We have a nest box in a large pecan tree out back.  For several years, it has been the summer home to Great Crested Flycatchers.  Sadly though, there has never been any success with the babies.  The first year, the first night they were able to get out of the box, the babies were all killed by a stray cat.  It was so sad for me, I had become so attached and I was heartbroken.   Well, as the years have gone on, this poor pair has had no success in raising young, and it has always been a sad and emotional end for me.  Sometimes the little ones die in the nest from disease, pests, or whatever.  One year, we managed to save one little guy and get him to a wild bird rescue lady - I hope he made it.  Last year we had baby birds and one day they were gone, but weren't even able to fly yet, no sign of them...

Well, this year the nest box has taken on a new occupant... an owl family.  I feel a little bad for the flycatchers, they did return to the tree and were making a lot of noise, but the owl wasn't budging, she had already claimed her home.  I figure the flycatchers will find another place to nest and maybe have a better chance there.  I am excited about our new guest.

I have seen both parents, they are not large, about 7-8 inches tall and cute as can be.  If I make a noise during the day on my back porch, Momma bird pops one eye into the opening and stares at me.  I don't know if they have only eggs or babies, as owls don't really make much noise, so I don't know if the babies will twitter or not.  I am excited to see owl babies! :)