Origins of the Myth From around the 12th century onward, the barnacle goose was enveloped in one of the most curious natural history myths of the Middle Ages. Medieval Europeans were puzzled by the bird’s breeding habits because the goose was never observed nesting or laying eggs in their own lands. Its breeding grounds in the remote Arctic were

Introduction The Barnacle Goose (Branta leucopsis) is a striking black-and-white migratory bird that breeds in the Arctic and winters in parts of Europe. While today it is well understood scientifically, the barnacle goose has a rich and intriguing history entwined with myth, medieval beliefs, and natural history. For centuries, it was linked to a

During the Middle Ages in Europe, owls were often linked to witchcraft, darkness, and the supernatural. Their nocturnal nature and eerie calls made them symbols of evil, death, and misfortune in folklore and superstition. Owls were sometimes feared and persecuted because they were believed to be familiars or companions of witches. However, by th

Owls have fascinated humans for millennia, inspiring myths, legends, and symbolism across diverse cultures. These enigmatic birds, known for their nocturnal habits and distinctive appearance, have played significant roles in history—not just as creatures of the night but as powerful symbols in art, religion, folklore, and even science. This artic