The bird often associated with wisdom is the owl. In various cultures, owls are perceived as symbols of knowledge, insight, and intuition. This association can be traced back to ancient Greece, where the owl was linked to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare. Its ability to see well in the dark has led many to view the owl as a creature that possesses hidden knowledge and deeper understanding. The saying "wise as an owl" reflects this cultural connection, solidifying the owl's image as a harbinger of wisdom in folklore and literature.