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. ) "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. " See Night-hawk, Ostrich.