Snowy Owl
NameSnowy Owl
Common NameSnowy Owl
Scientific NameBubo scandiacus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)147
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)1800
Plumage DetailsAdult males are almost pure white, while females and juveniles have varying amounts of dark brown barring on their white plumage. They have bright yellow eyes and heavily feathered feet, providing insulation in cold environments.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, resonant hoots, often in series of two to six, described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo'. They also produce harsh croaks, hisses, and bill-clapping, especially when agitated or defending a nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstundra, arctic plains, open grasslands, coastal areas
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeCircumpolar Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. During winter, they often irrupt south into southern Canada, the northern United States, and parts of central Eurasia.
Identifying Featureslarge size, predominantly white plumage with dark barring (more prominent in females/juveniles), bright yellow eyes, round head without ear tufts, heavily feathered feet
Description
The Snowy Owl is a large, distinctive white owl native to the Arctic regions. It is known for its striking appearance, often seen perched on low mounds or rocks in open, treeless landscapes, and is one of the few owl species that is largely diurnal.
