snow owl

Coloration: Males are almost completely white, while females have more dark or brown barring and mottling, which provides camouflage when nesting. Size: They are large owls, with a height of about 2 feet and a wingspan of 4 to 5 feet. They are also one of the heaviest owls in North America. Eyes: They have bright yellow eyes, which are fixed in their sockets. To see, they must turn their head, which they can rotate up to 270 degrees. Feet: Their legs and feet are covered in thick feathers, which helps them stay warm in their cold environment. Habitat and behavior Habitat: They are native to the Arctic tundra but sometimes wander south during winter, a phenomenon called an "eruption". They prefer open areas like grasslands and coastlines. Activity: Unlike most owls, they are often active during the day (diurnal), especially during the Arctic summer. Hunting: They hunt from a low flight or by perching and waiting for prey. Their excellent hearing allows them to detect prey, such as lemmings, even under the snow. Diet: Their diet consists mainly of small mammals like lemmings and voles, but they also eat birds and fish. Reproduction and life cycle Nesting: They build nests on the ground in open, treeless areas. Breeding: They raise 3 to 14 eggs, depending on food availability. Parental care: Both parents care for the young. The male hunts for the female and chicks, while the female incubates the eggs and stays with the young for warmth and protection. Lifespan: The average lifespan of a snowy owl in the wild is around 10 years. Conservation status and threats Conservation status: They are currently listed as vulnerable. Threats: Threats include habitat loss due to climate change, a fluctuating lemming population, and being hit by cars or airplanes.