For the A:Shiwi (The People) an owl is known as the Night Grandfather, one who uses knowledge and good judgment seeing what others cannot. Owls have been a part of legends and literature for ages. Some view them as harbingers of death. However mysterious they seem to be, they play a vital role in the environment acting as biocontrol agents through the hunting of agricultural pests. Building a social awareness against superstitions will help in protecting them. Herbert Halate's great horned Owl carved from alabaster is perched at approximately 4 5/8" tall, 2 1/8" wide and 1 7/8" deep. The size is nice. Always watchful eyes are from turquoise inlays and plumage has intricate etching including tail feathers.