Why do owls rotate their heads so far?

Owls can rotate their heads up to 270 degrees due to their unique skeletal structure. Their necks have 14 vertebrae, which is twice as many as in humans, allowing for greater flexibility. This adaptation enables owls to look in different directions without having to move their bodies, which is essential for spotting prey. Despite the impressive range of motion, owls cannot fully rotate their heads in a complete circle. This ability helps them see without moving, reducing the chances of alerting their prey.