Wildlife photography of a juvenile short-eared owl as it is perched on a wooden fence post with a curved strand of barbed wire below.

A juvenile short-eared owl perches on a rustic fence post, its head tilted in inquisitive wonder, with a curved strand of barbed wire framing the quintessential Montana backdrop.  Unlike many other owl species, they are highly independent from a young age. After they fledge, at around 4 to 5 weeks old, they are often capable of hunting for themselves, though they may still rely on their parents for food and guidance.