zoom_in Click to enlarge

Snowy Owl

▲ ▼

description Snowy Owl Overview

The snowy owl is a large, white owl native to the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. It is uniquely adapted to survive in extremely cold environments, with dense plumage and feathered feet. The species primarily preys on lemmings and is known for its diurnal hunting habits, especially during the Arctic summer.

help Snowy Owl FAQ

What do snowy owls eat in the Arctic?

Snowy owls primarily prey on lemmings and other small rodents, which make up the bulk of their diet in the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. A single adult owl can consume up to 1,600 lemmings in a single year.

How do snowy owls survive in extremely cold environments?

These large, white owls are uniquely adapted to survive the cold thanks to a thick layer of heavy feathering that covers their entire body, including their feet and toes. This natural insulation allows them to maintain a high core body temperature even in freezing Arctic blizzards.

Do snowy owls migrate south for the winter?

While they spend their summers breeding in the Arctic, some snowy owls do migrate south into the northern United States and Europe during the winter. These migrations, known as "irruptions," are often driven by severe fluctuations in the lemming population.

Where do snowy owls build their nests?

Because the Arctic tundra lacks trees, snowy owls build their nests directly on the ground. They scrape shallow bowls into the earth, often choosing elevated ridges to get a better vantage point to spot predators and prey.

swap_horiz

Looking for Snowy Owl alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward