Tyler Stanley
Marketing and Social Media Specialist
Whoooooo’s that at Blendon Woods’ nature center? Meet our newest animal ambassador, Athena the barn owl.
About American barn owls
The American barn owl, native to both North and South America, is identified by its white face, pale wings, and lanky appearance. These predatory birds are normally nocturnal and are deadly, silent hunters in their natural habitat. Except, that is, for their raspy, screech-like call, unlike the hoot of other owls. The American barn owl is one of 19 species of owls found across North America and often can be found inhabiting barns and other abandoned buildings, as its name suggests.
Interview with Stephanie West, senior naturalist at Blendon Woods Metro Park
Athena joined Metro Parks as an animal ambassador on Sunday August 9, 2026, where she quickly was taken under the wing of Stephanie West, the senior naturalist at Blendon Woods Metro Park. “I am so excited that we have the opportunity to educate with a live barn owl here at Blendon Woods. When an owl comes into the room, everyone’s attention is focused on her. She is just full of wonder and awe for everyone,” stated Stephanie. Before Athena, only taxidermy owls were available to Metro Parks staff to educate and present to the public.
Athena has been adjusting to her new life very quickly at the Blendon Woods nature center. When asked about her personality, Stephanie elaborated, “Right now, she is a bit reserved, but we expect that she’s going to settle into her position very quickly. Even in a week’s time, she has learned to come to my hand; she sits on her perch very calmly… So, I expect that within a couple of weeks, she’s really going to enjoy her life as an ambassador here at Blendon Woods.”
Why can’t Athena be released to the wild?
Before her time at Metro Parks, Athena imprinted on humans at a young age. Imprinting occurs during a narrow time frame shortly after birth where some birds and other animals form a bond with humans rather than their biological species. This type of attachment in owls and raptors is irreversible and causes developmental issues such as not fearing humans, not knowing how to hunt for themselves, and a failure to recognize their own species, making survival in the wild impossible. Imprinted raptors cannot legally be released into the wild in Ohio as a result. At Metro Parks, Athena will receive regular interaction, enrichment, and training in her new job as an animal ambassador at the Blendon Woods Nature Center.
Athena’s naming ceremony
On Friday August 21, 2026, Athena was bestowed her name after a lengthy naming contest conducted by Metro Parks’ visitor engagement team. Visitors could vote for one of six names: Athena, Owlivia, Lois, Bessie, Sarah or Katherine. Receiving over 40% of the 265 votes, Athena was crowned the winner at the August 21 meet and greet hosted by Blendon Woods Metro Park’s staff. Nearly 50 visitors attended the in-person event, and Instagram followers were also able to join Metro Parks’ livestream for the announcement.
Visit Blendon Woods Metro Park to learn more
Interested in learning more about Athena the American barn owl? The Blendon Woods Nature Center will be hosting animal ambassador meet-and-greet programs Fridays at 4pm during August and September. Our staff has received specialized training in order to handle raptors, and they are experts in all things owl! Athena will begin transitioning to a full-time residency in the aviary in front of the building in October.