Are Owls a Blessing or a Curse?

Barn Owl Inspiration

Have you ever been in a woods past dusk? When the shadows grow long and stretch across the forest floor. When the wild beasts emerge to become predator or prey. When you suddenly hear soft cooing from the branches that causes shivers to roll down your spine. A familiar sound giving clear indication of the source. An Owl. Is this a premonition? A curse? A witch? ….. Or perhaps, a protective spirit? A Blessing?

Depending on what culture you come from, you might assume anything from: La Lechuza ( a witch that can transform into an owl at night Mexican origin) , Mongwu ( the Great Horned Owl Spirit from Hopi Native Americans), or kotan kor kamuy ( “God of the village” to the native Ainu people of Hokkaidu, in Japan) among many, many more.

For ages Owls have been feared, respected, and worshipped.

Maybe it’s because of their ancient origins and unique characteristics. They are one of the oldest species of vertebrate animal we have discovered. In fact, they have mesmerized us for so long that they are one of the few bird species that can be found in prehistoric cave paintings.

Whether their magic has bewitched you in the twilight hours or made you throw salt over your shoulder, one thing is for certain. They are in trouble. There are many threatened and endangered species of Owl due to habitat loss. What that means is, they (among other species) are losing their homes. Places they use to hunt, breed, and yes ...maybe even bless/curse humans.

World wide we should do everything we can to protect these dwindling natural spaces. Did you know even down to the amount of beef you eat to the shirt you wear all effect how blocks of natural spaces are “used.” Meaning the higher demands for certain products, like beef, the more natural spaces are cleared to make way for cattle pastures. Take for example, The Barn Owl , the inspiration for my "Wild Beasts Art", watercolor piece shown above.

These beautiful creatures are now endangered. This is mostly due to farmers using the land that they need to survive on. So what can we do? Well, we can first look around ourselves. What are you consuming that requires forests to be cut? It’s a small step, sure but a BIG one. Then spread the word, my friend. Do it so these legends can continue their magic.

Share your personal owl stories in the comments below!

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