Owl tattoos are a hugely popular choice when it comes to animal tattoos, and fans of the look get them in all shapes, sizes and colors. Their symbolic association with wisdom and majesty is part of their appeal, as well as the intriguing and aesthetically pleasing shape and plumage.

Throughout human history, owls have been considered fascinating and beautiful creatures. In fact, there are few other animals, birds or otherwise, which have so many associations attached. Owls have been feared, admired, adored — and even linked to witchcraft and omens.

If you’re charmed by the unique appearance and personality of the owl, then you might want to get the bird permanently inked on your skin. If that’s you, then you’re in the right place. In this post we’ll take you through some of the hottest owl tattoo ideas, plus clue you up on the symbolism behind the allusive bird.

Owl Tattoo Symbolism

Owls can represent a variety of things. For many, they are simultaneously symbolic of wisdom and darkness. They therefore represent a certain duality.

Owls are associated with wisdom and knowledge, however this is not necessarily intellectual wisdom but more closely linked with the soul. Owls have night vision, which means they are able to see in the dark. Taken symbolically, this can mean they can unmask mystery and see through lies and deception. The fact the owl can see what others can’t is what makes them wise.

However, owls have a number of other qualities. For example, they are often seen as mysterious by humans, largely because they are nocturnals so we don’t often see what they get up to. They also live in the dark of night, which many associate with a certain mystery and magic. They are often thought of as related to moonlight, which itself is a majestic and magical phenomena. Because of this, owls can be linked with the moon’s symbolism, such as femininity, divinity, fertility, and renewal.