A barking owl (Ninox connivens) catches a grassland melomys (Melomys burtoni), an arboreal rodent that is often seen running up trees in the monsoon forest. The owl below was clearly discontent at not taking part in feeding, and it audibly complained to the owl clutching the prize.
With a sharp beak and powerful talons, the raptor easily ripped into the tree rat and after a few minutes flew off to end the discussion with its persistent nocturnal companion.
The second barking owl lost hope in sneaking a chunk of the delicious meal and flew to a low perch with eyes and ears alert for any other unsuspecting rodents that might wander by.
Photographed in situ [1]
