What is an example of situational irony in the book Hoot?

A great example of situational irony in "Hoot" occurs when Roy Eberhardt, after going through so much trouble to save the burrowing owls, finally meets them face-to-face. He finds them sitting on a pile of dirt, completely unimpressed by his efforts and seemingly indifferent to their own plight.

Here's why this is ironic:

* Roy's Expectations: Roy has spent weeks battling the construction of the pancake house, risking his own safety and reputation, all to protect these owls. He has come to see them as a symbol of nature's resilience and beauty.

* The Owls' Reality: The owls, on the other hand, are simply going about their business. They are not aware of the danger they are in or the lengths Roy has gone to save them.

* The Contrast: The contrast between Roy's heroic efforts and the owls' casual indifference creates a humorous and ironic situation. It highlights the absurdity of Roy's quest and the often-unpredictable nature of the natural world.

This moment underscores the theme of human perception versus reality in "Hoot," showing how our perception of the world can sometimes be at odds with the actual circumstances.