What bird is called a flying cat? - briefly
The bird commonly referred to as a "flying cat" is the owl.
What bird is called a flying cat? - in detail
The bird commonly referred to as a "flying cat" is known scientifically as the owl. This unique moniker stems from several distinctive features that set owls apart from other birds and have led to this intriguing comparison.
Firstly, owls possess exceptional night vision, which is enhanced by their large, forward-facing eyes. This adaptive trait allows them to navigate through the dark with remarkable precision, much like a cat's ability to see in low light conditions. Additionally, owls have a unique facial disc that funnels sound towards their ears, giving them exceptional hearing—another characteristic shared with cats.
Furthermore, both cats and owls exhibit a silent flight mechanism, which is particularly notable in owls due to the soft feathers on the edges of their wings. This design minimizes air turbulence, enabling them to glide through the air almost imperceptibly, much like a cat moving stealthily on the ground.
Moreover, both animals are known for their solitary and often nocturnal habits. Owls typically hunt at night, preying on small mammals such as mice and rats—a dietary preference that aligns with cats. Their silent and efficient hunting techniques have further cemented the "flying cat" nickname.
Overall, these shared attributes of exceptional vision, acute hearing, silent flight, and similar hunting behaviors have led to owls being affectionately referred to as "flying cats."