Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
OWL. In Deut 14:16-17; Isa 34:11, 2 Sam 20:15; Ps 102:6 this word doubtless denotes some one or other of the five species of owl common in Egypt and Syria. The Hebrew word translated Eagle Owl (Bubo Maximus. After Houghton.) "owl" in eight other cases means the ostrich, as is often indicated in the margin. Some of these birds we know are very abundant in Palestine, especially among ruins, and their doleful hooting as they seek their prey by night
intensities the present desolation of these former habitations of pride and glory. The prophecies of Isa 34 find a fulfilment in modern Petra - ancient Idumaea - as described by Irby and Mangles: "The screaming of eagles, hawks, and owls, which were soaring above our heads in considerable numbers, seemingly annoyed at any one approaching their lonely habitation, added much to the singularity of the scene." See Night-hawk, Ostrich.