TOWN OF BETHEL, NY — Guests who turned out to a cookout at Cobalt Studios in the Town of Bethel on August 28 were treated not only to a hearty meal, but also to a visit with a Eurasian eagle owl who was brought to the occasion by local falconer Brian William Bunce.

Bunce said the Eurasian eagle owl is the second largest in the world and is a quick and lethal hunter. Because of its hunting prowess, this species of bird has been used to clear smaller birds out of large buildings such as those that house Home Depot stores.

Bunce also brought a barn owl and a gyrfalcon, and all three birds were a hit with the diners.