My folks had pictures of an owl about that size. One picture it was perched on Mom's shoulder and another on of it perched on Dad's shoulder. We had a tree line on our farm and maybe Dad had found it on the ground. It seemed calm. It was before my time. I may have heard the story but I don't remember it. It's one of many things after they are gone you want to ask them. I have a couple older cousins that I ask questions to. I will try to ask them.
Beckydent ---- I can relate to this --- as I am the eldest in the family at this point. No more questions to elders --- or reminiscing about memories shared with that generation.