Snowy Owl
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Tuxyso" title="User:Tuxyso">Tuxyso</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameSnowy Owl
Common NameSnowy Owl
Scientific NameBubo scandiacus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)142
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)2275
Plumage DetailsAdult males are often pure white, while females and younger birds have varying amounts of dark brown barring and spotting across their white plumage, particularly on the crown, back, and wings. They have bright yellow eyes and a small, black beak.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, resonant hoots, often in series, used for territorial defense and mating. They also produce harsh alarm calls, hisses, and clacking sounds.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstundra, grassland, coastal areas, open fields
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeCircumpolar Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. During winter, they may irrupt south into southern Canada, the northern United States, and parts of Eurasia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Predominantly white plumage with dark barring (more in females/immatures), Bright yellow eyes, Round head with no ear tufts, Diurnal hunting behavior
Description
The Snowy Owl is a large, distinctive owl known for its predominantly white plumage, which provides excellent camouflage in its Arctic habitat. It is a powerful diurnal predator, often seen hunting during the day, especially for lemmings and other small mammals.
