We have seen a Short-earred Owl twice over the last week, right in our yard.  Both times it has appeared late afternoon, just before the sun starts to set, and perches in a tree and just sits and waits.  The first time we got to see it swoop down on something!....it landed at the edge of the woods just out of sight, but we did see a Red Squirrel run for cover right after that!!  Today it was in a tree just behind the garage, and with the binoculars we could see it very well.  The kids were thrilled to be able to see an owl so close.  It would be neat if it made an appearance over one of my winter bird count weekends next month; I've never recorded an owl sighting before.