SS 1/180. I would like to know if the harsh highlight on the feathers is distracting. Post-edit, USM. This is a captive owl which I encountered at a local zoo. He was quite happily perched on his trainer's arm. I have seen these birds in the wild, but nothing even comes near to a close-up view of those eyes. I think perhaps if you look hard enough you can see into his soul just a bit.
Suzanne, I don't think the highlight on the feathers is distracting at all. I like the contrast to the darker side of the photo. You sure captured an interesting expression - do owls have an expression? Anyway, great work. ~~ Debby