Halo Crested Owl

The Halo Crested Owl is a variety of barn owl. It is known for its striking, midnight-blue back feathers, and stark white belly and face. A half-ring of white feathers crowns its head. The Halo Crested is less shy than most owls, often seen, even during the day, sitting on branches and watching passers by. It is said that the Halo Crested Owl is a messenger, or aid, to Heriot the Shepherd of the Dead. They are rumored to remain near the dying, to speed their journey safely across the Veil and to Heriot in the Halls of Silence.
While their presence is not necessarily comforting to most, killing one is considered to be beyond bad luck, as doing so is said to attract the attention of Heriot before one's time.

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

This species of owl is found all over Northern Auscives, southern Torai, the southernmost islands of the Kuman'Tai peninsula, and parts of Shadowvale.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

As owls, the Halo Crested has excellent darkvision and tracks motion exceptionally.

Conservation Status

While it is considered highly unlucky to kill a Halo Crested Owl, they are not in any way rare or endangered. They are common throughout all of Northern Auscives, especially in the woods of Vaeleryn, Bregarrio, and Southreach.