Buzz
Not all owls are nocturnal. Some are diurnal hunters like the Great Gray Owl and Northern Pygmy Owl.
Recent studies indicate that owls evolved from diurnal ancestors, contrary to previous beliefs. Their exceptional night vision and silent flight are enhanced by unique genetic adaptations.
Barn owls (Tyto alba) are acting as peacemakers in the Middle East, fostering dialogue and collaboration between scientists and farmers on both sides.
These predatory birds are star rodent catchers, prompting farmers in Israel, Jordan, and Palestinian territories to install numerous owl boxes in their trees. A single owl can consume up to 6000 rodents annually, reducing the need for harmful pesticides to protect crops.
Owls possess an impressive neck structure with 14 cervical vertebrae, twice the number of humans. This unique anatomy allows species like Strix Varia (as depicted) to rotate their heads up to 270 degrees. The secret lies in their vertebrae featuring large, hollow spaces, ten times larger than the size of their arteries. This flexibility enables blood vessels to navigate through the vertebrae as owls turn their heads. Such capability is crucial for owl survival as their eyes are fixed and require neck rotation for observation.
Biological mysteries enabling owls to rotate their heads without cutting off their blood supply have finally been elucidated. Four key adaptive features help owls avoid injury when rotating their heads up to 270 degrees. Research reveals the unique bone structure and vascular system of these birds facilitate their agility. Scientists at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the US have observed more arteries in the spine and neck of owls compared to other bird species, resulting in better circulation. Thus, owls possess wide vision without needing to move their bodies, enhancing prey detection.
Some owls have false eyes
Northern Saw-whet owls boast bright yellow eyes on their faces... and black eyespots on the back of their heads, which appear intimidating when stared at. These false eyes can slow down or deter predators approaching from behind. Predators are also less likely to attack if the prey looks at them. Remember, Northern owls are active during the day, so adversaries will always see their false eyes when approaching these small owls.
6. The Screech Owl Can Eat Fish, Insects, and Even Other Owls
Ever wonder what screech owls eat? It depends on the species and size of the owl.
7. Snowy Owls Can Fly Long Distances
Snowy owls (Bubo scandiacus) typically inhabit the Arctic, but they migrate southward as a sort of invasion journey. One snowy owl flew nearly 4,800km to Hawaii, landing at Honolulu International Airport on Thanksgiving Day in 2011. However, fearing the owl might collide with airplanes, federal officials euthanized it.
Owls may attack humans.
Despite their cute hoots, some owls can be menacing when threatened.
9. Owl pellets cannot be chewed
The owl is a bird that cannot chew its food, it tears it into small pieces and swallows it whole.
Living in harmony with humans, crows are a common sight even in urban areas like New York City.
Crows adapt well to human settlements, with some species even thriving in suburban regions.
Crows are classified by their calls
There are over 200 confirmed species of crows worldwide, with ongoing discoveries and threats of extinction.
The Vietnam Cat Owl Species
Vietnam is home to various unique cat owl species. Here are some of them:
15. Owls with Night Vision Abilities
Through natural selection, research indicates that DNA in the retinal cells of owls may have fused together in a unique way, acting as a lens or enhancing agent to support night vision capabilities.
