Nyctea scandiaca
When thermometers freeze and the landscape moans in winter's grip, Snowy Owls can be seen defiantly atop a high perch. Even in the worst winter weather, this arctic visitor is shielded from the cold by a thick feather coat that almost hides its black bill and talons. Feathers are excellent insulators: a simple ruffle creates many air pockets, which shield the bird's warm body temperature from freezing conditions. As Snowy Owls age, their plumage becomes lighter, and old males are the most characteristic in their near-white dress. Snowy Owls are erratic visitors to the Rockies; they can be numerous, especially when arctic lemming and vole populations are exceedingly low. |
I.D.: General: predominantly white plumage; yellow eyes; black bill and talons; no ear tufts. Adult male: almost entirely white body with very little dark flecking. Adult female: dark barring on the breast and upperparts. Immature: heavy barring on the white body. Size: L 20-27 in. (51-69 cm); W 54-66 in. (137-168 cm); female is noticeably larger. Range: sporadic winter visitor throughout the Rockies. Habitat: open environments, such as agricultural areas, open fields, pastures and shorelines at low elevations; often perches on human-made structures, such as fenceposts, buildings and telephone poles. Nesting: on the arctic tundra; in a slight depression on a raised hummock or gravel bank; very little lining is added; female incubates 3-4 elongated eggs for 32-34 days. Feeding: swoops from a perch, often punching through the snow, to take mice, voles, rats, grouse, hares, weasels and, infrequently, songbirds. Voice: quiet during winter. Similar Species: Great Gray Owl: gray plumage. Great Horned Owl: brown plumage; ear tufts. |
