Barn owl (Tyto alba)

Natural science underwent a profound transformation at the end of the 16th century, with greater emphasis placed on insights derived from personal observations. De Boodt, too, adopted a precise and encyclopaedic approach. The artist likely endeavoured to accurately depict this species – like the other owls in the album – on paper. The heart-shaped facial disk and speckled chest of the bird here identify it as a barn owl.