The animal most commonly associated with wisdom in many cultures is the owl. This association can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where owls were often linked to deities or symbols of knowledge. For example, in Greek mythology, the owl was dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare. Their nocturnal nature and ability to see in darkness have contributed to their mystique, leading people to view them as creatures possessing deep insight and understanding. As a result, the owl has become a universal symbol representing wisdom across various cultures around the world.