Snowy Owl
Image: Dana Boyle (cc-by-nc)
NameSnowy Owl
Common NameSnowy Owl
Scientific NameBubo scandiacus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)142
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)2275
Plumage DetailsAdult males are largely pure white, sometimes with a few dark spots. Females and immatures have more extensive dark brown barring and spotting on their white plumage, particularly on the crown, back, and wings. All ages have bright yellow eyes and a round head without ear tufts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, resonant hoots, often a series of 'hoo-hoo-hoo' calls. They also produce harsh shrieks, hisses, and clacking sounds when agitated or defending their nests.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsarctic tundra, open grasslands, coastal dunes, agricultural fields
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeCircumpolar Arctic, breeding in the tundra regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters further south into southern Canada, northern United States, and central Europe/Asia, especially during irruptive years when prey is scarce.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Mostly white plumage with varying dark barring, Bright yellow eyes, Round head (no ear tufts), Diurnal hunting behavior, Feathered feet
Description
The Snowy Owl is a large, distinctive white owl native to the Arctic tundra. Unlike most owls, it is often active during the day, especially during the continuous daylight of the Arctic summer. These powerful predators primarily hunt small mammals and birds in open, treeless environments.
