The Owl Phenomenon: Culture and Cognition

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This chapter examines the cultural impact of the Harry Potter franchise on owl domestication and the misconception of these wild animals as suitable pets. It highlights unique physical attributes, feeding habits, and intelligence of owls while exploring their complex relationship with humans, ranging from fascination to fear. Through various anecdotes and research insights, the chapter reveals the richness of avian life and the mystery surrounding these remarkable creatures.

An owl will eat a rabbit whole, but owls can't digest the fur or the bones. So how do they survive? Why do their eyes face forward rather than to the side? Long-eared Owls don't have ears, so what's up with the name and how do they hear? How can dogs help us track owls--that seems impossible. Owls don't make nests, so where do they live? Listen as Jennifer Ackerman, author of What an Owl Knows, talks about the book with EconTalk's Russ Roberts, peeling back the feathers to reveal the astonishing biology and behavior of owls, as well as the amazing stories of those who love and study them.