Knock knock, hoo’s there? Puns aside, owls are fascinating creatures that have continued to inspire many cultures, and the things they represent are as varied as they come. While commonly regarded as a symbol of wisdom nowadays, during the Middle Ages in Europe, owls were seen as foolish and eerie specters due to their association with witches. In many indigenous cultures, owls are considered birds with prophetic powers or harbingers of death, perhaps due to their primarily nocturnal nature and, of course, wide, unblinking eyes.

Today’s feature is all about these magnificent, hootiful birds of the night. Look into their eyes—doesn’t it feel like they’re staring right into your soul?

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In many cultures around the world, owls serve as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. In Greek mythology, Athena the goddess of wisdom is usually depicted as being accompanied by a little owl that was meant to represent her extraordinary foresight. In many instances of fantasy literature, owls are revered as the sages of the forest and are sought out in times of great need.

VTuber Tamayura Yura certainly looks right at home among that flock of owls, doesn’t she?

Which of the drawings below do you think is just a hoot?

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