Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize the snowy owl as Harry’s famous companion, Hedwig, but these beautiful and powerful owls are easily recognizable not for their magical associations, but for their large size and striking white plumage. Snowy owls are, in fact, the only primarily white owl, and they are a highly sought after species for many birders to add to their life lists.
Common Name:
Snowy Owl, Arctic Owl, Great White Owl
Scientific Name:
Bubo scandiaca (formerly Nyctea scandiaca)
Appearance:
- Bill: Black and short, strongly hooked
- Size: 24-26 inches long with 55-65-inch wingspan, stocky body
- Colors: White, brown, black, yellow
- Markings: Dimorphic species. Males are almost entirely white with some faint brown or black barring on the chest, back and wing tips. Females are larger and more heavily barred, though the face, cheeks and neck are plain white. Both genders have feathered legs and bright yellow eyes.
Foods:
Small mammals, birds, fish
Habitat and Migration:
Snowy owls are found in far northern latitudes including tundra and Arctic habitats. Their breeding grounds are in the Arctic tundra, and they migrate south throughout Canada during the winter. In exceptionally harsh winters or when food supplies are scarce, these owls can appear much further south than their normal range. While principally a North American bird, they can also migrate to northern areas of Europe and Asia.
Vocalizations:
Snowy owls are not vocal birds, but they do have a very high pitched, even screech and a low “chuk-chuk-chuk” call often used near the nest or when threatened.
Behavior:
Snowy owls, like all owls, are powerful predators that are active mostly at night but can hunt and feed during the day, especially when food supplies are low. These owls will perch on the ground or on rocks, stumps and other low vantage points. Males can be ferocious when defending the nest, and both genders will also perform an “injured bird” act to lure predators away from the nest.
Reproduction:
Snowy owls are monogamous birds. Both parents may incubate the 3-10 eggs for 30-34 days, or the incubation may be done primarily by the female. The owlets remain in the nest for 14-21 days and will attempt their first flight at 42-58 days. Mated pairs will raise one brood per year unless food supplies are inadequate and then no eggs may be produced.
Attracting Snowy Owls:
Snowy owls are not backyard birds but may visit yards in suitable habitats to perch on posts or rocks. Leaving long grasses that can serve as food for mice and voles may also attract hunting owls.
Similar Birds:
- Barn Owl (Tyto alba)
Photo – Snowy Owl – Female, in Flight © pbonenfant
Photo – Snowy Owl – Male © Umberto Salvagnin
