Snowy Owl Bubo scandiacus
Identification
This owl has white plumage with variable dark markings. It is large and striking in appearance.
Location
Rare winter visitor
Size
3 to 6 pounds
Diet
It feeds on small mammals and birds.
Habitat
It occurs in open fields and shorelines during irruptive winters.
Activity Period
November to March
Behavior
It is diurnal and perches in open areas. It is active in daylight.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in the Arctic.
Population
The population varies with prey cycles.
History
It appears in Ohio during some winters.
Human Interactions
It may perch near airports.
Facts
It is adapted to Arctic environments.
Sources
ODNR NatureServe
Small mammals birds | Open fields shorelines airports | Northern Ohio