first of all,i,d like to say that i wish,us photographers,not be painted with the same brush.it,s sad to see people fighting over the same common interest,which is observing nature.had a great day at the spit yesterday.thank you Steve R,for the guided tour,and sharing your knowledge,and passion.3 LEO,s were found,with 2 beeing photographed.as a group of 5,we stayed well back,and took turns getting in position for our photos.at no time were we closer than 35-40 ft from the owls.everyone was quiet.we met chris the conservation/enforcement officer,and invited him over,to observe our routine.in no time,he realized no stress was apparent with the birds,and he was happy with the whole situation.he,s a very nice young level headed young man.he even took turns with us photographing the owls,with steve,s 500 mm lens.yes folks,no lens under 400 mm was used.after all,we use long lenses,so as not to get close,whitin the bird,s circle of fear.proper etiquette was followed at all times.here is 2 of the owls,one of which,could barely keep his eyes open.he was that relaxed.just wish everyone could get along.these were all taken with a long lens,and cropped considerably.