Associated with Halloween due to the solitary, nocturnal habits of most species and their eerie, hooting calls, owls have a fascinating natural history and physical characteristics as well as a rich cultural presence in symbolism, mythology, and literature. Specialized sight and hearing functions, nearly perfect camouflage, and the ability to fly almost silently make them among the stealthiest night hunters – only the large, vividly colored eyes may give it away as it sits in wait and listens for the slightest movement from the forest floor. With 200 species distributed throughout almost every part of the world, the owl is variously believed to be an omen of bad luck, ill health, or death, but its use as a symbol for the Greek goddess Athena, noted for art and scholarship, has led to its association with wisdom. The Welcome Gallery will feature a display of art, artifacts, photographs, and ephemera as we explore of the natural and cultural history of the owl. Watch our website for family-friendly educational programming to learn more about these not-so-spooky creatures!
