A face that listens
The facial disc channels sound toward the ears. In some species, ear openings sit at different heights, helping locate prey in three dimensions.
Soft edges
Comb-like leading feather edges and soft plumage reduce flight noise, helping many owls approach prey quietly.
Eyes fixed forward
Large forward-facing eyes support depth perception. Owls turn their heads to change their view because their eyes move little within the sockets.
“Silence is one of the owl’s most useful tools.”