Hear rustling from chimney. Shine light, from roof: Near-white owl-face peers back from below.

Fun story about killing lights, door to outside open + porch light on.
(Coached by local animal rescue person on phone)

Slowly open damper, creep away. Watch.

Beautiful bird, larger than I'd supposed from the top.
Slowly reconnoiters, sees me peering around corner. Not freaked, fortunately.

The sight of that huge wingspan opening in the room after a short 'taxi';
then sharp L. turn - folding wings in perfect coordination so as
to glide gracefully through door opening and into Freedom -
(no walking for This bird..)
- will remain with me.


Sorry about your squirrels :(