The little owl (Latin Athene noctua), also known as Owl of Athena or owl of Minerva, is a nocturnal predator, although sometimes it occurs during the day in open spaces. As its name implies, it is a small owl with a flat-topped head, a plump, compact body, and a short tail. It feeds on prey, from insects and earthworms to vertebrates including small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and small birds.
It is known from ancient Greek mythology but also from depictions as the symbol of the wisdom of the goddess Athena.