Snowy Owl
NameSnowy Owl
Common NameSnowy Owl
Scientific NameBubo scandiacus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)150
Length (cm)59
Weight (g)2275
Plumage DetailsAdult males are nearly pure white, while females and juvenile males have varying amounts of dark brown barring and spotting on their white plumage, which provides camouflage. They possess striking bright yellow eyes and a small, black beak almost hidden by facial feathers.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent outside of the breeding season, Snowy Owls produce deep, resonant hoots, various hisses, shrieks, and clacking sounds. Alarm calls can be a series of harsh 'krow-ow' notes.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstundra, arctic plains, open grasslands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeCircumpolar Arctic, breeding across the high Arctic tundra of North America, Europe, and Asia. In winter, they may irrupt south into southern Canada, the northern United States, and parts of Eurasia, often found in open fields and coastal areas.
Identifying Featureslarge size, predominantly white plumage, bright yellow eyes, round head, diurnal activity, heavily feathered legs and feet
Description
The Snowy Owl is a large, striking owl native to the Arctic tundra. It is known for its predominantly white plumage, bright yellow eyes, and its habit of hunting during the day, often perching on elevated spots to scan for prey. This powerful predator primarily preys on small mammals and birds.
