Have you ever wondered what kind of owl Hermes, the messenger of the gods in Greek mythology, is? Let’s dive into the world of owls to find out more about this fascinating creature.
The Species of Owls
Owls are birds of prey and belong to the order Strigiformes. There are around 200 species of owls, and they can be found all over the world, except for Antarctica. They come in different sizes, ranging from the tiny Elf Owl that is only 5 inches tall to the Eurasian Eagle-Owl that can grow up to 28 inches tall.
Hermes – The Barn Owl
Among all the species of owls, Hermes is most commonly associated with the Barn Owl (Tyto alba). The Barn Owl is one of the most widespread species of owl and can be found in every continent except for Antarctica. It has a distinctive heart-shaped face and usually has a light-colored back with dark spots.
Why Is Hermes Associated with Barn Owls?
In Greek mythology, Hermes was known as a messenger god who would often travel at night. Owls are known for their excellent night vision and silent flight, which made them perfect companions for Hermes on his nocturnal journeys.
Furthermore, ancient Greeks believed that owls were sacred birds associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom. As Hermes was often depicted as a companion or messenger of Athena, it makes sense that he would also be associated with owls.
Other Owl Species Associated with Greek Mythology
Apart from Barn Owls, other owl species have been associated with Greek mythology as well. For instance:
- The Little Owl (Athene noctua) was considered to be sacred to Athena.
- The Screech Owl (Otus scops) was believed to be a bad omen and associated with Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft.
- The Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) was associated with the god of winter, Boreas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes is commonly associated with Barn Owls due to their nocturnal nature and association with Athena. However, other owl species also have significant roles in Greek mythology. Owls are fascinating creatures that have been intertwined with human culture for centuries, and their importance in mythology only adds to their mystique.
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