Ancient Athenians observed Little Owl (Athene noctua) nesting in their temple to Athena, Goddess of Wisdom. Perched on the niches atop the pillars of the Acropolis, Little Owl and her Friends stared out at the bustling city beneath Them. At night inside the temple, Little Owl’s glowing yellow eyes seemed magical and penetrating. To the Athenians, Little Owl was both the Friend of Athena and Her Representative.
As Athena’s Emissary, Little Owl promised victory to the Greeks at the Battle of the Marathon (490 B.C.) over their enemies, the Persians. While fighting the invaders, the Greek soldiers saw Little Owl perched nearby. So inspired by Her Presence, they drove the Persians back to their ships. Afterwards, the Athenians issued a silver tetra drachma coin with the likeness of Little Owl and Athena. Little Owl, on the coin, kept a watchful over Athens.
Avoiding forests, Little Owl prefers the open countryside of orchards, farmlands, and hedgerows. Active during the day, She perches on a fence post watching for prey. Sighting a Rodent from her hedgerow perch, Little Owl suddenly takes off to drop down on her victim. Little Owl’s flexible lifestyle allows Her to stay in one place. If one food source is depleted, She takes advantage of another source. To see her family through scarce times, Little Owl will store extra supplies.
Little Owl actively defends her territory through guile. Preferring not to fight, Little Owl will call or chase the intruder. She will try to avoid the intruder if at all possible.
Little Owl, as the Ancient Greeks knew, teaches wisdom. So flexible in her way of life, She can thrive where She chooses to live. During hard times, Little Owl has her stores live off. Unlike many other Owls, Little Owl had a happy relationship with people. Learn the many aspects of wisdom from Little Owl.
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Little Owl photo copyrighted by Alain Fosse'
Little Owl photo copyrighted by Peter Glogg, Visipix.com
Va. Carper
January 25, 2008