Earth Day 2025: The Power of Grey Owl
The Power of Grey Owl
Northern Saskatchewan
“The Power of Grey Owl” was selected by the artist, Jason Leo Bantle, as All in the Wild’s 2025 Earth Day print. For us, and for Jason, this is a very special designation with significant meaning. The theme of Earth Day 2025 – Our Power, Our Planet – encourages us all to support renewable energy.
Our actions are our voice. Grey Owl, one of Canada’s earliest and best-known conservation advocates, reminded us that “You belong to nature, not it to you”. This image portrays the power of and power within this owl, power in the message from Grey Owl, and the power of this image to change the way you and I act towards our planet.
Great grey owls typically overwinter in their northern breeding grounds and foothill habitats. During this particular winter, over many parts of Western Canada, we have experienced a phenomenon known as an “irruption”. This is when great grey owls move out of their typical habitat, due to declining rodent populations and/or unfavorable snow conditions, in search of food. This makes them more visible to us along rural roads and open fields. It also makes the species more vulnerable to human habituation and, in turn, at greater risk of vehicle collisions. We must all be respectful when observing and photographing these amazing individuals: Be sure to keep a respectful distance, using a long telephoto photography lens or binoculars.
Jason captured this image as the owl emerged from the dark shadows of the forest. The owl was focused on a pinpoint under the snow – most likely an unsuspecting rodent. It was a split-second moment that Jason had hoped to capture after much time in the field observing, filming and photographing great grey owls. The owl hit the snow, stopped for a brief second, then came up empty-handed. Jason had photographed many different moments with owls, but the direct line to his lens by this owl was the only one with the “wow!” factor.
It was one of eleven incredible encounters with different owls that day – a testament to the “irruption” that happened. With his 800mm lens, sitting quietly for several hours waiting and observing, Jason captured behaviors and moments that occur only during “irruption” years with this species. Jason was in awe at the hunting abilities and power of North America’s largest owl: The silent majesty and pure beauty of this iconic bird!
Grateful for every remarkable encounter, Jason was eager to share his rare experiences captured through his lens. “I don’t know when the next irruption will happen,” he mused, “but this was an incredible winter!”
Join Us for Earth Day 2025
Earth Day is April 22nd, and events are happening globally. Find local activities and learn how you can get involved at Earthday.org. Together, we can make a difference!
