Snowy Owl
Bubo scandiacusAlso known as Polar Owl, White Owl, Arctic Owl, Great White Owl
Snowy owls are nomadic Arctic hunters that glide silently over the open tundra, relying on exceptional hearing and vision to detect prey beneath the snow. Unlike most owls, they hunt primarily during the day to take advantage of the continuous daylight of the polar summer. Their thick, heavily feathered feet and dense down insulation allow them to thrive in some of the coldest environments on Earth.
- diet
- Carnivore (primarily lemmings, voles, and waterfowl)
- family
- Strigidae
- threats
- Climate change, prey fluctuations, collisions with vehicles and power lines, and human disturbance
- life Span
- 9 to 15 years in the wild
VU
Equipped with powerful talons and a sharp beak; maintain a respectful distance to avoid defensive strikes.
Possesses razor-sharp talons and a powerful beak capable of inflicting deep puncture wounds and lacerations if cornered or defending a nest.
Never approach a nesting or injured owl; contact local wildlife rehabilitation professionals if you suspect an owl needs help.Classified as Vulnerable due to rapid population declines linked to climate change, which disrupts Arctic rodent cycles and nesting habitats.
Keep at least 100 meters away, especially during winter irruptions when these birds are already exhausted and conserving energy.- Keep your distance: Use binoculars or a spotting scope to observe them without causing them to flush.
- Watch for stress signs: If the owl sits bolt upright, stares directly at you, or flies away, you are too close.
- Respect wintering grounds: Avoid sharing exact locations of wintering owls online to prevent crowds from stressing the bird.