20. Observer

The photo shows the owl (Athene noctua) hidden among the granite blocks. This small nocturnal bird of prey loves to nest in the middle of the crevices of the rocks but is well adapted to living also in an agricultural environment where it occupies the heaps of boulders deriving from the removal of stones from fields and pastures, or in the cavities of abandoned buildings in the open countryside. After having seen one hidden in its stone cave, or on top of a rocky ridge, it is almost impossible not to feel observed by every geometric anomaly drawn in the landscape. Its keen eyesight and great head mobility (180 degrees on each side) allow it to notice any intruder in its territory and hide quickly if it feels threatened. The owl’s diet consists largely of arthropods, small birds, reptiles and rodents, in fact, it is considered a useful ally of man in the numerical containment of mice, not very welcome in country houses and barns. In the past, as evidenced by the Latin name, it was a symbol of wisdom and according to some cultures it was a tangible manifestation of the goddess Athena. Very common throughout the Sardinian territory, it prefers rocky environments with large clearings on the edge of the woods where it finds plenty of prey.

Coordinates of the photographed site: 40°25'50"N 9°33'46"E