Snowy Owl - Five Sisters Zoo

An Arctic species, the Snowy Owl is found generally across the northernmost parts of Europe, North America and Asia. Males have brown banding on their feathers when young, which eventually will fade and in some cases, leave them with pure white feathers. Females will have banding on their feathers in dark browns and black for their entire lives. They are diurnal rather than nocturnal, meaning they are active and hunting during the day rather than at night.

Facts

Diet: Carnivore; small mammals, specifically lemmings when available, some fish and crustaceans.

Weight: 1-3kg

Length: 50-75cm

Wingspan: 1.5m

Habitat: Northern Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Russia, Scandinavia; tundra with low vegetation and away from the tree line. Will nest on the ground rather than in the trees.

Life span: 10 years

Adapted to Survive

  • Colouration of feathers enables them to disappear on the tundra
  • Like other owls, able to fly nearly silently and ambush their prey

Threats

  • Agricultural development leading to loss of prey and habitat
  • Climate change
  • Human development and expansion

IUCN Conservation Status

Vulnerable

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