This compelling link with humanfolklore makes some conservationists hopeful that endangered owlscan be protected - because humans really do give a hoot. Almost every culture has either a positive ornegative belief about the bird. Many other cultures share thesefearful views. Ancient Romans believed the screech of anowl foretold death and that witches transformed into owls andsucked the blood from babies. Some have viewed owls as manifestations of amore sinister darkness. Merlin was known to have an owl, and in the HarryPotter series, young wizards communicate by owl messengers insteadof instant messengers. Because of their closekinship with the night, owls are also associated with magic andwitchcraft. The Greek goddessof wisdom is often depicted holding an owl. Perhaps the earliest known link betweenowls and wisdom is their association with Athena. Their ability to see in the darkhas elevated owls, in some cultures, to manifestations of wisdom.In Western folklore, owls are commonly associated with studiousscholars and wise elders. But how did they garnersuch a reputation for intelligence? Owls are nocturnal birds andfunction extremely well at night. Whether delivering an environmental message, correcting thespelling of a famous bear, or sailing away with a beauteous kitty,owls have quite a hold on our imaginations.
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