Since owls are mainly active at night when most mammals sleep, owls and nocturnal activities have long since been viewed suspiciously. These are animals that see and navigate in the darkness; animals not bound by the restrictions of ordinary, everyday living.
Their night vision is one sign of the special quality these birds possess. Ancient Greeks honored Athena, their goddess of wisdom. Many Native American traditions also connect owls with wisdom and intuitive thought.
Owl's silent flight often brings to mind silence and secrecy associated with mystery teachings throughout the world -- whether the mystery traditions and wisdom schools from Egypt or the hidden temples in hidden valleys in the Himalayas as reported throughout Tibet and Nepal today.