I have half a dozen grey owls and they don't look at all like that first photo. But they are only 7 years old. I was under the impression that 4'-6' in height was to be expected with a wing/bat shape. Much more flatter and broad than the photo. They are around 4'-5' right now and are flat and spreading. This year is the first year they have had berries, which are very attractive.

Not sure about the trying to root now or wait, I have recently posted asking about that also. Another option for you would be to send them to Luc at FL Colors. He will graft them for you. I recently sent him one and got it back with beatiful roots on it. He charges next to nothing plus shipping. Thank goodness you caught the rot. Lauri

I think it's a mourning dove. Found something pretty close online at allaboutbirds.org from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. I'm telling you, it sounds a lot bigger than it is :) I might keep looking around to see what else it might be, but I'm definitely on the right track with the mourning dove.

We have screech owls who nest in the woods beside the house in our nesting box or in a tree and we treat them like "they aren't there"... LOL as if we didn't spend LOTS of time watching them, esp when the babes fledge. But for the most part, I find whether it's owls, wrens, or something in between, just go about your normal routines and they will adapt accordingly (moving further away from the yard if that's their choice). I'd keep the cat inside "just in case" but don't think the kids will have any problems. Nice pic and aren't you lucky. We feel blessed when the larger owls come into the yard.