Athene Noctua is the scientific name for the Little Owl, a small bird that is found across Europe, Asia and parts of North Africa. Synonyms for the Little Owl include the common owl, the screech owl, the nocturnal owl and the owl of Athena, which is a reference to the Greek goddess of wisdom and war. Other synonyms for Athene Noctua include the royecto owl, the cascabel owl, the goat owl and the chestnut owl. Despite its diminutive size, the Little Owl has played a significant role in many cultures throughout history, and has been associated with wisdom, knowledge and protection.