I was out from 6:10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. today, taking part in a Christmas Bird Count on the Cochrane Reserve, north-west of Calgary. Not sure of the exact number of bird species we saw, but it was around 23. Just outside our count area at the end of the day, we saw a beautiful little Northern Pygmy-owl atop a tall Spruce tree. Thanks, Tony, for bringing your scope - what an amazing view we were able to get of this tiny, perfect owl! We called in at various farms and ranches and saw all sorts of things in addition to the birds. This bright red barn was a photographic "must", as I love barns and I love red : ). We have a similar day tomorrow, only starting around 7:10 a.m. (phew!), and in the Sheep River/Turner Valley area, south of the city. Can't wait to see what we will find.