The Owlman of Mawnan

Since 1976, witnesses near the village of Mawnan in Cornwall have reported encounters with a terrifying creature resembling a giant owl. The Owlman, as it became known, is described as having wings, clawed feet, and glowing eyes. Sightings center on the church of St. Mawnan.

The First Sighting

On April 17, 1976, two girls visiting from Lancaster reported seeing a large, feathered creature hovering above the church tower. They described it as man-sized with pointed ears and wings. Their father took their account seriously enough to report it to a paranormal researcher.

The Summer Sightings

Further sightings occurred in July 1976. Two more teenage girls camping near the church claimed a creature with large wings and glowing eyes descended near their tent. They heard a hissing sound and fled in terror. Their description matched the earlier account.

The Description

Witnesses consistently describe a creature five to six feet tall, with large wings, feathers or fur, pointed ears, and glowing red or yellow eyes. The creature is owl-like but has clawed feet and a more humanoid body. It makes hissing sounds and has an intimidating presence.

The Theories

Various explanations have been proposed: an escaped exotic bird, a misidentified large owl, a hoax, or a genuine unknown creature. Some researchers connect the Owlman to the American Mothman, noting similarities in description and the association with specific locations.

The Church Connection

St. Mawnan’s church occupies an ancient site, possibly pre-Christian. The concentration of sightings around the church suggests the location may be significant. Some theorize the Owlman is connected to whatever spiritual forces attracted worship to this site.

Assessment

The Owlman remains Cornwall’s most famous cryptid. The consistency of witness descriptions and the specific location create an intriguing mystery. Whether real creature, supernatural entity, or elaborate folklore, the Owlman has become part of Cornish legend.