29/05/2026
The White Owl of the Highlands
Old Scottish people tell stories of a White Owl that once lived among the misty lochs of the Highlands. She was known as the Guardian of the Moon.
No one knew where she came from. Some believed she was born from the first winter snow, while others said she was the spirit of an ancient Celtic queen forever bound to the mountains of Scotland.
The owl appeared only during the full moon. She flew silently above castles, ruined towers, and the dark waters of the lochs. If someone saw her, it was considered a sign. To kind-hearted people she brought protection and good fortune, but to those who entered the mountains with evil intentions, she brought fear and caused them to lose their way.
One day, a young bagpiper became lost in the mountains during a heavy fog. He wandered for many hours and was close to losing all hope. Then, upon an old stone, he saw the White Owl. She stared directly at him with her golden eyes and slowly spread her wings.
The musician followed her. The owl flew from stone to stone, guiding him through the mist until the lights of a village finally appeared ahead. When the young man turned to thank her, the bird disappeared into the cold moonlight.
From that night on, the bagpiper played a melody for the White Owl beside the loch every evening. People said that sometimes, during his music, a pale figure with enormous wings could once again be seen above the water.
And even today in Scotland, people believe that if you hear distant bagpipes on a foggy night and see a white owl, it means the ancient spirits of the Highlands are still near.
š¬Alongside this wonderful legend, I have shared my oil painting. The original artwork is available for purchase, and prints can also be ordered.