This pose shows off the owl's number one hunting weapon, it's sharp and powerful talons used to stab and grasp its prey.
One interesting feature that makes owls such formidable predators is the ability to rotate their head 270 degrees. This, combined with their binocular vision and silent flight, allows them easily spot and swoop down on their prey.
With its very human-like gaze, it's little wonder that this bird has given rise to the popular expression 'wise old owl'.
