Snowy owl

Snowy owl

The Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) is a large, white owl of the true owl family. Snowy Owls are native to Arctic regions in North America and Eurasia. Males are almost all white, while females have more flecks of black plumage. Juvenile Snowy Owls have black feathers until they turn white. The Snowy Owl is a powerful bird that can take down large prey.

Description

Snowy Owls have large heads, smooth, rounded bodies with dense, thick feathering, and long wings. They range in body size from 52 to 71 cm (20 to 28 in) long, with a wingspan of 125 to 150 cm (49 to 59 in). As is common with most bird species, females are slightly larger than males.

Habitat

The Snowy Owl inhabits open tundra and plains in the Arctic Circle. During the winter, it can be found in fields and along shorelines, as far south as the northern United States. Unlike most owls, Snowy Owls are diurnal, actively hunting both day and night.

Diet

Their diet primarily consists of rodents, such as lemmings and voles. However, they are capable of catching prey much larger than themselves, including geese and other birds.

Reproduction

Snowy Owls nest on the ground, often on a mound or boulder that provides a view of the surrounding landscape. Females lay a clutch of 3 to 11 eggs, depending on the availability of food. Both parents protect the nest and care for the young.

Conservation Status

The Snowy Owl is currently listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Threats include climate change, which affects their tundra habitat, and collisions with vehicles and airplanes.

Cultural Significance

The Snowy Owl holds a place in the folklore and mythology of many cultures. In some Native American traditions, it is seen as a symbol of wisdom or a guardian against harm. The Snowy Owl also gained popularity as the pet of Harry Potter character, Hedwig.