Owls have been used in various artistic, mythological and literary traditions to symbolize concepts such as wisdom, magic, nighttime, protection and awareness. For example, the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena, was often seen accompanied by owls.
Different cultural traditions have used owls to symbolize different things. According to Kansas State University, the Native American Pawnee people saw owls as a symbol of protection, and other Native groups believed that owls were associated with the ability to see and hear through deception. The Athenian owl, the constant companion of the goddess Athena, has represented the concept of wisdom for centuries with contemporary educational institutions such as Rice University adopting the owl as both its mascot for sports and symbol for more formal associations.Learn More
Owls are associated with intelligence, but they are actually not as intelligent as some other birds. These birds are better known for their sharp senses, which help them identify prey and give them good night vision.Full Answer >
Like many other birds, owls achieve flight by flapping their wings. Owls, however, have a special adaptation that allows them to fly nearly silently and take prey by surprise on dark nights.Full Answer >
Owls communicate using a variety of sounds. The sound depends upon the species of owl, and most species have multiple calls. The call of a species differs depending on distance and intent.Full Answer >
A group of owls is officially called a parliament. Some people refer to a group of owls as a brood, diss, nest, looming or wisdom.Full Answer >