Thanks for the feedback. Yah it's probably just a real tough focus situation. I'm also wondering if the AI algorithm is as well tuned towards owls as it is towards other birds. It seems to lock quickly onto birds that have a proper beak, so I'm guessing that the AI is programmed that way. Owls are kind of lumpy and funny looking, which might fall outside the pre-programmed focus algorithms.

Meanwhile I do have to say that the R5 with 100-500 is sure nice for hand holding! So incredibly light. When you can get by with f/7.1, it's a game changer.