Owls

Information about Owls:

Owls are predatory birds belonging to the Order Strigiformes. There are about 200 different species of owls in existence. Most owls are nocturnal, but there are some that are active during the daylight hours. They are found on all continents except Antarctica. Owls have forward facing eyes set in a facial disc. They have binocular vision, but their eyes are fixed in their sockets, so if they want to change their view they must move their entire heads.

The size of owls vary greatly, from the diminutive Elf Owl, which is native to North America weighs in at 1.1 ounces (31 grams) whereas the Eurasian Eagle Owl has a wingspan of over six feet and weighs 10 pounds (4.5 grams) Owls rely on stealth and surprise when hunting their prey. They are designed to fly nearly silently, and with their excellent eyesight and hearing, they are able to see and hear prey from a good distance, determine where the animal is, and how best to launch an attack.

Owls feed on small mammals such as mice and rats, so their presence in an urban environment provides important pest control. Their powerful talons can grab and hold prey, while their curved, downwards pointing beaks are specially designed to tear apart flesh. In Western culture, the owl is the symbol of wisdom and knowledge, whereas in Arab mythology owls are sometimes seen as bad omens