Terrifying Images Of The Devil-Red Reflected Eyes Of The Stygian Owl

Take one look at this Mexican feathered creature, and you'll be running for cover.

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• January 31, 2023

All over the world, there are different kinds of animals. And they are one of the best things about nature.

These animals are so many new creatures we never knew existed are coming to the limelight each year. A quick research will show you that some 86 percent of the Earth's species have yet to be discovered.

Considering the number of animals on earth, with birds alone having a whopping population of approximately 50 billion, it won't be surprising if there are feathered creatures out there that you've never set your eyes on. 

However, the animals that have been discovered are pretty darn awesome, and many of them are great companions for humans.

Birds, for example, are owned by people worldwide, even though they aren’t the most popular pet options. In the United States, about 3.5 million people have pet birds. That number isn't very high compared to the over 48 million people who own dogs.

We bet the existence of birds like the Stygian Owl contributes to birds not being the top pet choice. One look at that bird; the last thing you’d have on your mind is taking it home.

We’ll be taking a deep dive into this magnificent creature. Scroll down to find out all you can about this fascinatingly terrifying bird. We bet you’d learn quite a few exciting things about it!

Where can you find the Stygian Owl?

You can find this unique creature in some parts of Central America, Mexico, Cuba, Hispaniola, and about ten countries in South America.

The dusky-colored owl is usually 38 to 46 cm long and weighs about 400 to 675 g.

The distinctive features of the Stygian Owl

This owl is unique for a number of reasons. One is because of its name, which means ‘gloomy and dark,”). In addition, its name can be linked to the River Styx, which, in Greek mythology, forms the boundary between the Earth and the underworld.

Another interesting thing about this bird relates to its distinct body features. The Stygian Owl has a black beak, dark blackish facial disk, and white eyebrows. The underpart of the bird features a buff color with dark brown.

Are you frightened enough yet?

The bird also has a speckled whitish forehead and crown, while its top sections are dark and sooty-brown. The outside webs of the scapulars show faint markings, while the mantle and back are practically plain.

Their eyes are famous for having a red reflection when illuminated by lamps, which is why people associate them with the Devil.

Fear not; they don’t eat humans

The Stygian Owl might be devil-like, but no need to worry; humans are not on their menu. They prey on various animals, including small gregarious birds, rodents, reptiles, insects, and bats.

You can find them hunting during their nighttime roosts.

It’s always fun learning new things! We bet you enjoyed reading up on this owl species and its incredible features. We know we did!

What did you find most interesting about this bird? It’s red eyes, or what it feeds on? Let us know in the comments section below.

Jesse