Which 2024 superb owl represents the Chiefs and 49ers ahead of the Super Bowl?

There are some superb owls that represent the two teams involved in the Super Bowl.

Welcome to the Superb Owl 2024 coverage you crave. Last year, we brought you an “owl-themed halftime show” to spice up your football-saturated feed. Today, superb owls are making a comeback as we decide which owls best represent Super Bowl 58’s competing teams.

Join us, it’ll be a hoot.

Before we unveil each team’s newly assigned owl mascot, let’s discuss what goes into this very serious and scientific pursuit. How will we choose which owl represents each team? While we can’t share all of the mysterious factors that contribute to such an important decision, here are some of the key elements we’ll focus on.

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  1. Does the owl species live near where the team is based?
  2. Does the owl’s personality suit its team?
  3. How awesome would it be for the team to replace its current mascot with this owl?

These guiding questions will determine which bird each team gets blessed with. Will the Kansas City Chiefs turn out to be more of a barn owl or a snowy owl team? Do the San Francisco 49ers give off great horned owl vibes? Let’s find out:

Kansas City Chiefs

A red-orange, black, and white fluffy Eastern screech owl.
Photo by Elizabeth Pector

Only one owl encapsulates the energy of the Kansas City Chiefs. That bird is none other than the eastern screech owl. This species literally eats smaller birds for breakfast. Much like the Chiefs, eastern screech owls are also known to be fierce fighters. Eagle-eyed nature enthusiasts may be able to catch a glimpse of these critters nestling in trees around Kansas City, Missouri. They’re often found in the region’s forests and many other parts of the eastern United States. Plus, with its big eyes and funky ears, this owl would make a much cuter mascot than the Chiefs’ KC Wolf.

San Francisco 49ers

A brown and white burrowing owl.
Photo by Renee Grayson

Say hello to the burrowing owl, the unofficial bird representative of the San Francisco 49ers. These curious little animals can be found year-round in burrows around the Bay Area. Their signature bright yellow eyes also bring to mind 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan’s keen eye for offensive strategy.

But would a burrowing owl be a better mascot than the 49ers’ Sourdough Sam? Yes, absolutely. Sourdough Sam may be an entertaining symbol tied to San Francisco’s history, but does he sing a fun little song or have cool yellow eyes? No. You know who does? The burrowing owl.

Now, the only question left is: which superb owl would win in a fight? Find out this Super Bowl Sunday.