This image has circulated across the globe and is now hitting social media platforms in Kenya. We sought to establish whether an owl has blood-red eyes. From online research, this owl species is called Stygian and is characterized by long ears tufts, dark coloration, and particularly the brilliant red reflection of the eyes when illuminated by light.
“The eyes of an owl are so big that they occupy more than half the volume of its skull, they are also tubular and its large eye lens is positioned close to the retina which allows a lot of light to fall on the retina. It can see so well in the dark.”
The image in question was, however, photoshopped to imply other meanings. “Sunlight is not why the eyes are red in this photo, this has been doctored. Even in sunlight, you would see the iris. And no they don’t look red like that” – Online commentator https://www.owling.com/stygian-owl/
In brazil, Stygian Owl is believed to be evil and sent by witches at night, this, just like among some of the African’s myths. An Owl is active at night, feeding on bats and insects.
https://www.owlpages.com/owls/species.php?s=3540
While the owl is considered a symbol of wisdom in the West, in many countries in the East, it is associated with misfortune, witchcraft, and foolishness. In many parts of Africa, the poor nocturnal bird is reviled as a harbinger of death.
The screech of an owl considered a bad omen is used by film producers to bring special effects in their horror movies.
Owl myths in India are something. They are seen to bring luck and wisdom, while their screech is considered an omen of death. In Hindu mythology, an owl is the vehicle of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. People worship Lakshmi on Diwali. https://www.livemint.com/…/opinion-owls-cry-foul…
COMMENT:
Myths remain myths.
