I love barn owls in particular, they are my favorite birds. If I could have one as a pet I certainly would. I used to work at a bird of prey rehabilitation center with everything but the large eagles and the barn owls were always my favorite. Such smart birds! I don't particularly find owls creepy, but tell you what, nothing makes you jump while walking your dog at midnight more than a great-horned owl hooting - that call is a loud one, and it doesn't necessarily sound like an owl call at first, which makes it creepier lol