Snowy Owl
Image: kirk gardner (cc-by)
NameSnowy Owl
Common NameSnowy Owl
Scientific NameBubo scandiacus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)150
Length (cm)59
Weight (g)2000
Plumage DetailsAdult males are almost pure white, while females and immatures have varying amounts of dark brown barring and spotting on their white plumage. All have bright yellow eyes.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, resonant hoots (e.g., 'hoo-hoo-hoo'), often given in series. They also produce harsh shrieks, hisses, and clacking sounds, especially when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstundra, grassland, coastal, open fields
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds across the circumpolar Arctic tundra. During winter, they often move south into southern Canada, the northern United States, Europe, and Asia, especially during irruption years.
Identifying Featureslarge size, mostly white plumage, bright yellow eyes, no ear tufts, diurnal hunting behavior
Description
The Snowy Owl is a large, distinctive white owl native to the Arctic tundra. Known for its striking white plumage, it is a powerful diurnal hunter, often seen perched on low eminences scanning for prey.
