Talk About Wildlife

Have Questions?

+1-(246)-333-0089

Snowy Owl in Canada: Features & Best Time to See

Snowy Owl in Canada

The Snowy Owl is a big white bird with bright yellow eyes. It lives in very cold places up north. It is famous for its pretty white feathers. These owls hunt mostly at night and eat small animals like mice. They fly very well and can go far. They are often seen sitting on the ground or low things, looking just like the snow around them.

The Snowy Owl is a pretty bird and is quite frequently seen in Canada during winter. These owls usually live in the cold Arctic, but they fly south to warmer places like southern Canada when it gets too cold. If you see a Snowy Owl in Canada then it’s a special moment you’ll never forget.

Physical Characteristics and Features

Features of Snowy Owl in Canada

These eye-catching birds have some attractive physical features that grab the attention of visitors and these are;

Features Relevant Information
Scientific Name Bubo scandiacus
Life Span About 10 to 12 years but can live up to 30 years
Diet Lemmings, Ground Squirrels, Voles, Hares, Rabbits, Songbirds, Geese and Fishes
Wingspan 1.2 to 1.5 meters on average
Average Weight In range of 1.6 to 3 kg

Females weigh about 2.3 kg.

Males weigh about 1.8 kg.

Other Names Polar owl, White Owl, and Arctic Owl
Habitat Heightened peaks in nests, Prairies, Marshes, Open fields and Shorelines,
Status of specie Not Endangered

Fascinating Facts About Snowy Owls in Canada

Facts About Snowy Owls in Canada

Following are some interesting and catchy facts about these adorable birds that force visitors to click;

1. Arctic Resident

Snowy owls are year-round residents of the Canadian Arctic and specifically inhabit the northern territories.

2. Southern Migration

During winter, some Snowy owls migrate south into southern Canada following the seasonal shift.

3. Provincial Bird

This beautiful bird was recognized in 1987 as an official provincial bird of Quebec.

4. Diurnal Hunter

Unlike most owls, snowy owls are active during the day, especially in the continuous daylight of Arctic summers.

5. Primary Prey

Lemmings form the bulk of the Snowy owl’s diet in Canada which influences their breeding success and migration patterns.

6. Silent Flight

Snowy owls have specialized feathers that allow nearly silent flight, aiding in hunting over Canadian tundra.

7. Camouflage Coloration

Their white body color provides excellent camouflage in snowy Canadian landscapes.

8. Nesting Habits

The residence is constructed on the ground in slight depressions on peak heights present in the Arctic regions.

9. Climate Change Impact

The rising temperature of the Canadian Arctic affects their number and the prey availability.

10. Cultural Significance

Snowy owls hold important cultural significance for many Indigenous peoples in Canada.

11. Excellent Vision

Their eyes are adapted for both day and night vision and this thing is favorable for hunting in varied Canadian light conditions.

12. Airport Attraction

Snowy owls are sometimes found at Canadian airports, which resemble their tundra habitat.

Best Places to See Snowy Owl in Canada

Best Places to See Snowy Owl in Canada

Following are some of the best places to see these majestic birds in the Canadian territory;

Direction of the Country Places Where Snowy Owls are Found
Northern Territory Nunavut, Northwest Territory, and Yukon
Eastern Territory Nova Scotia, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador
Central Territory Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan
Western Territory Alberta

Some Specific Locations to See Snowy Owl

Below mentioned are some specific places to capture the sight of these snowy owls;

  1. Canadian Arctic Archipelago
  2. Hudson Bay Lowlands
  3. St. Lawrence River Valley
  4. Great Lakes RegionĀ 

Best Time and Month to See Snowy Owls in Canada

Time and Month to See Snowy Owls in Canada

They are winter travelers and the best time to see them is usually during the winter when they take flights;

Season Months for Sightseeing
Late Winter to Spring February to March
Winters December to January
Share the Post:

Related Posts