The little owl (Athene noctua) is a bird that inhabits many of the temperate and warmer parts of Europe, Asia east to Korea, and north Africa. This species is among the larger grouping of owls that is known as typical owls, Strigidae. It is considered as the epitome of a nocturnal bird; active in late afternoon or early morning, but is actually alert all day long.
In Italy is quite common as a species and widespread almost in the entire Apennine Peninsula. Its preferred habitat is the surrounding of residential areas in low altitude, where exists human presence. The little owl avoids high altitudes because the presence of snow limits its nourishment.
This bird is white-speckled brown above, and brown-streaked white below. It has a large head, long legs, and yellow eyes, and its white “eyebrows” give it a stern expression.
The little owl as all nocturne birds had always a reputation for bringing bad lack. However, in ancient Greece the owl was considered as a sacred animal, protected by the goddess Athena, goddess of wisdom and reason, and even today is illustrated in many lucky charms.
Photo gallery
Video
Notes
Cesare Della Pietà e Marco Mastrorilli, Gufi e Civette, Muzzio, 2008