Final answer:
Owls have been associated with witches since the Middle Ages due to their supernatural symbolism in various cultures. In ancient Rome and during the Puritan era in New England, owls were seen as familiars or companions of witches, contributing to the ongoing association.
Step-by-step explanation:
The association between the owl and witches dates back to the Middle Ages. In various cultures, owls have been believed to possess supernatural powers and have been associated with magic and witchcraft.
In ancient Rome, older women were sometimes associated with magic, and owls were seen as the familiars or companions of witches. They were depicted as vampiric creatures who would harm babies or breastfeed them in a monstrous way.
Additionally, during the Puritan era in New England, belief in witchcraft was prevalent, and owls were seen as symbols of the supernatural. Many women were accused of witchcraft, and the association between owls and witches continued.