"Close Encounter" captures a special moment when we were visited by this Barred Owl in our back yard a couple of years ago. One of the distinguishing features of Barred Owls that I find interesting is their deep dark brown eyes. Usually dark eyes can give an animal a sinister look, but somehow these beautiful birds are able to pull off a look of complete charm and innocence. You really feel like your are in the presence of a mysterious creature that is wise beyond it's years.