As it turns out, abnormal is the normal in Brazil's Atlantic Forest. It all started with a distance ruckus, then complete chaos as trees erupted around me. Birds of all types swarmed the tree tops. With the confidence of the tallest eagle and an esteemed judge, the Least Pygmy-Owl emerged 🦉. This is Brazil’s 🇧🇷smallest owl and the third smallest in the world, mighty enough to take down prey twice its size. With one quick flap, the tiny owl took its perch, and the forest fell silent to less than a whisper🤫. I was so confused, why all the noise, then sudden silence? 🤔

A quick hoot later, two hummingbirds appeared, hovering in place. They both gave introductions, followed by a few maneuvers to show their agility. The other birds cheered 😃and beat their wings in favor of their chosen competitor. It was now obvious that I was about to witness a competition.

The contestants created a safe distance apart then began flapping as fast as ever, more than 50 times a second! Flying forward then backwards, up and down with all kinds of twists and flips in between. This went on for quite some time, ending right before sunset. 🌅 A clear winner was never announced, and to be honest, I don't know if this was the point. But what I do know is, owls hunt most effectively at night. Therefore it was probably best for everyone to get out of sight before the judge 🧑‍⚖️started handing out death sentences. 🦉☠️🍽️

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7.11.2025

Atlantic Forest, Brazil

Shot on Sony A1 w/ 600f4

ISO640 f/4 1/500

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