There are many folklores and tales of owls that represent death, hunting at night, and bringing death and destruction in their path. But, do owls really represent death? While owls do often represent death, spiritual death does not mean loss of life; rather, death represents the ending of something and the beginning of something else. It represents change, transformation, rebirth, and renewal. Because owls are also associated with wisdom, inner knowledge, and intuition, this is often related to the death of a part of your ego so you can awaken to a higher version of yourself. In spiritual symbolism, death can appear as the ending of a relationship, the ending of a job, or the ending of a bad habit. In its place, there is room for healthier relationships, jobs, and healthier habits. So does seeing an owl mean that death is near? Likely not. But it might be a sign that there is something significant that is about to change that will lead you on the path towards truth. Finding a dead owl can carry this same spiritual symbolism: there may be a big change headed your way.
White Owl Meaning - Seeing a white owl represents that something in your life is about to change. White owls remind us that change is a law of nature. If you are going through a hard time, the message is that this is temporary and will soon change.
Black Owl Meaning Seeing a black owl indicates shadow work that you are processing. This may be deep subconscious false beliefs or negative thinking that are coming to the surface so that you can finally move past it. They can also represent energetic protection. Black owls usually show up in dreams or visions.
Brown Owl Meaning Seeing a brown owl carries a deep nurturing energy, especially regarding your intuition and self-worth. This may be a good time to set time aside for spiritual development and mindfulness practices.
Grey Owl Meaning Seeing a grey owl represents the mystery, and trusting that everything will work out even if you don’t fully understand it. The universe is working on you under the surface, and this is a time to trust in the bigger picture.
Barn Owl Meaning Seeing a barn owl relates to your skills, intellect, and ability to complete a task with everything you have right now. The barn owl in innovative, creative, and thinks outside the box. If you are trying to solve a problem, the barn owl asks you to look at the issue from a different perspective. You have what it takes to complete your goal.
Barred Owl Meaning Seeing a barred owl is about peacemaking and restoring broken relationships. You might be asked to forgive someone, particularly someone in your family or close community. You might be called into work that helps people resolve conflicts with others or themselves, such as conflict resolution, or therapy.
Snowy Owl Meaning Seeing a snowy owl represents spiritual growth. Similar to seeing a white owl, a snowy owl represents deep change resulting in the releasing of a lower state of being and embracing your higher purpose. You may be asked to give up negative relationships, harmful habits, toxic environments, and embrace a more grounded and spiritually uplifting lifestyle.
Great Horned Owl Meaning Seeing a great horned owl is about taking swift action on a goal with confidence, determination, and ease. If you have been procrastinating on a project or idea, now is the time to take the first steps. This owl is connected to the third/solar plexus chakra, so cleansing and strengthening this area may help you become more confident and self-assured.