What does the screech owl symbolize in the scarlet ibis?

In "The Scarlet Ibis" by James Hurst, the screech owl symbolizes death and foreshadows tragedy. Its haunting call serves as an ominous presence throughout the story, reflecting the vulnerability of Doodle and the fragility of life. The owl's association with darkness and the unknown accentuates the themes of loss and the inevitability of fate, underscoring the emotional weight of the narrative.