The term “owl” applies to both males and females of the species, but the world of zoology often employs specialized terminology to denote gender and life stages. This practice of using specific collective and gender-based nouns is common in birds, particularly raptors, and extends to the Strigiformes order. These unique names provide a more precise way to discuss the birds beyond the general species name.
The Specific Term for a Female Owl
The most specific term for an adult female owl is a “hen.” This designation is widely borrowed from the nomenclature used for female poultry and game birds, such as chickens, turkeys, and pheasants. While referring to a female owl simply as an “owl” is technically correct and commonly understood, “hen” serves as the specific, gender-distinguishing term.
The use of “hen” emphasizes the female’s biological role in reproduction, particularly in laying and incubating eggs. In the context of owl observation and rehabilitation, using “hen” helps clearly differentiate the larger, nesting female from her mate. This specialized vocabulary highlights distinctions that are biologically relevant, especially during the breeding season.
Names for Male and Young Owls
For the male owl, the specific term is often “cock,” paralleling the use of “hen” for the female, though “male owl” is the most frequent and straightforward descriptor. In some bird-of-prey contexts, a male owl may also be referred to as a “tiercel,” a term that originates from falconry and denotes a male raptor that is approximately a third smaller than the female.
The young of an owl is universally known as an “owlet,” a diminutive term widely used in ornithology. Owlets can be further categorized by their developmental stage, such as “nestlings” when they are confined to the nest, or “fledglings” once they have developed enough plumage to begin leaving the nest and practicing flight. These young birds have soft, downy feathers that lack the complex markings of the adult plumage.
Terminology for a Group of Owls
The collective noun for a group of owls is famously a “parliament.” This distinctive term is not based on the bird’s social behavior, as most owl species are solitary, but rather on cultural association. The word stems from the ancient and persistent association of owls with wisdom, knowledge, and thought.
This connection dates back to Greek mythology, where the little owl was the symbol of Athena, the goddess of wisdom. The dignified, wide-eyed gaze of the owl led to the imaginative collective noun, suggesting a gathering of wise, contemplative individuals. While “parliament” is the most recognized term, other collective nouns include a “stare” or a “wisdom” of owls.
Size and Behavioral Differences Between Sexes
Owls exhibit a form of sexual dimorphism known as reversed sexual dimorphism (RSD), where the female is larger and heavier than the male in many species. For example, in Tawny Owls, females can be 20 to 40% heavier and have a wingspan that is 5 to 10% longer than their male counterparts. This size difference is particularly pronounced in traits related to flight and body mass.
The size difference is linked to distinct parental roles and survival strategies. The larger female is better suited to remain on the nest to incubate the eggs and brood the young, requiring greater body mass to survive without regular feeding. Conversely, the smaller and more agile male is the primary forager, responsible for hunting and bringing food to the female and owlets during the early nesting stages. This division of labor allows for successful reproduction.