WILDLIFE WATCHING -- With huge size and disproportionately large head, the great gray owl is a standout in the region's woods.

The bird's range -- mostly in boreal forests -- includes an area near Republic, Wash., as well as a fork of habitat south through far-eastern and North Idaho and a swath of Western Montana.  Montana outdoor photographer Jaime Johnson says considers himself very lucky to have great grays nesting just a few minutes from his home.

The largest owl in Montana - very social, they don’t seem to mind our presence. Hands down, our favorite type of owls.