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Birding/night bird
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Question
I really hope you can help us....first of all this bird was heard in the Free State Province of South Africa in the Warden area.
It was late at night and the call was heard first....like a human screaming (first thought was that someone was in trouble) then it was overhead and the screaming was loud. I can't give an example of the size but to say it was a large bird with a light colour under belly.
I hope you can help.
Mara
Description of sound and appearance make me think Barn Owl. Their call resembles that of a human screaming and they tend to appear white against the night sky.
You should be able to see images of and listen to it here:
http://ibc.lynxeds.com/species/common-barn-owl-tyto-alba
Hope this is what you were looking for,
Julia
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Answers by Expert:
Julia Booth
Expertise
I can answer questions about bird identification (by sight or sound), behavior, distribution, population, conservation, mating, nesting, fledging and feeding. I do have some practical knowledge about foreign species, but identification skills are limited in that arena. Bear in mind that as much as I know, it's possible that at least some of you will ask a question that I am unable to answer. At which point I would direct you to wherever or whomever I thought could provide you with that information.
Experience
I have 15 years birding experience in Southern California.
Organizations
Audubon Society
Education/Credentials
My education is in art and photography -but I have a substantial portfolio of nature related work.
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