What an Owl Knows

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Genius of Birds and The Bird Way, Jennifer Ackerman presents a brilliant scientific exploration of owls, delving into the mysteries and allure surrounding these elusive birds in What an Owl Knows. This captivating narrative takes readers on a journey through the enchanting world of owls, offering a detailed investigation into why these remarkable animals have such a profound effect on the human imagination.

For centuries, owls have captivated and intrigued us. Our fascination with these enigmatic birds dates back over 30,000 years, as evidenced by the Chauvet cave paintings in southern France. The enduring allure of their forward gaze and almost silent flight has established the owl as a universal symbol of wisdom, knowledge, foresight, and intuition. However, what do we truly know about owls? While our infatuation spans millennia, it is only recently that scientists have begun to study these birds extensively. With over 270 species spread across every continent except Antarctica, owls are notoriously challenging to find and study due to their cryptic nature and nocturnal habits.

In What an Owl Knows, Ackerman embarks on a thrilling and elusive treasure hunt, joining scientists on a quest to uncover the rich biological history and remarkable scientific findings about these birds. Through modern technology and innovative tools, researchers have unearthed astonishing revelations: owls communicate extensively through nocturnal vocalisations without even opening their bills, their hoots follow intricate rules to express needs and desires, and they engage in activities like duetting, migrating, using tools, and hoarding prey. Some owls reside in underground burrows, while others consume scorpions as part of their diet.

Ackerman enlivens this research with her vivid personal field observations and investigates why owls continue to mesmerise and inspire us. What an Owl Knows is an awe-inspiring and spellbinding journey across the globe and human history, offering a dazzling account of the extraordinary health, hunting prowess, communication skills, and sensory capabilities that distinguish owls from nearly all other birds. This extraordinary glimpse into the minds of these brilliant animals unveils the hidden realities of our shared world.

What an Owl Knows has received high praise from critics:

"Ackerman is a warm and companionable guide, so enthusiastic about her subject that I suspect even the avian-indifferent will be charmed by her encounters with owls and the dedicated people who study them. Each species seems like a marvel, but certain owls are so special that her book is peppered with superlatives ... The photos in Ackerman's book are fascinating." - Jennifer Szalai, New York Times

"Once again, Jennifer Ackerman has written a fascinating, fact-filled and wonderfully readable work of popular science - this time on one of the most mysterious and charismatic of all bird families - the owls." - Stephen Moss, author and naturalist

"Immensely enjoyable ... What an Owl Knows eloquently bridges the gap between science and popular assumption to brings us the surprising (and often endearing) facts about these legendarily mysterious birds. Forget what you know, or think you know, because the truth is stranger than fiction!" - James Aldred, author of Goshawk Summer

This book is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the natural world, offering deep insights into the enigmatic lives of owls and the human fascination with these creatures. What an Owl Knows is not just a scientific exploration but a testament to the wonder and mystery of nature's most elusive birds.