This Barred Owl is not making a sound. Nature’s model for stealth technology. The leading edge of wing feathers have comb-like serrations that break up the turbulent air that creates the usual swooshing sound.
As seen below, the smaller streams of air over the wing are further dampened by velvety textures of feathers unique to owls. A soft fringe on a wing’s trailing edge dampen the turbulence even more.
All together, these structures & textures streamline the air flow and absorb the sound produced. Prey never hear the business end of the owl coming until they are right on top of the unsuspecting prey or photographer as the case may be.
Technical Note: All of these sequences were shot using Olympus\OM System Procapture. For how it works and settings read my post on my custom OM-1 settings.
Steve , These posts are SO interesting and especially to me who can neither photograph or bird in the wild . Thanks .June Bishop P S do we need to help support this ? Are we already and if so ,have I antied up ? ? JB