Astari 
The snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus) is a large bird of prey known for its striking white plumage and impressive size, inhabiting the Arctic tundra and found in regions around the North Pole.
Adult males typically have a wingspan of 53–65 inches and a body length of 20–25 inches.
Females, being larger, have a wingspan of 61 to 73 inches and a body length of 24 to 28 inches.
Male snowy owls weigh 2.6-3.5 pounds; females, exhibiting sexual dimorphism, weigh 3.5-6.6 pounds.
One endearing nickname is the “White Terror of the North,” emphasizing its role as a formidable Arctic predator.
Moreover, they are also known by other nicknames, including Arctic Owl, Great White Owl, Ermine Owl, Tundra Ghost, Ookpik, Scandinavian Nightbird, Highland Tundra Owl, and more.
The “Ghost of the Arctic,” snowy owl, is recognized for its all-white plumage camouflaging in snowy habitats.
Not all snowy owls are completely white; some, particularly females, may exhibit dark markings on their feathers.
The snowy owl has yellow eyes that pierce through its white facial disk. Piercing eyes are adapted for diurnal hunting, allowing the owl to spot prey during summer daylight hours of the summer.
One remarkable adaptation of snowy owls is their heavily feathered feet. Feathered feet act as insulation, protecting the owl’s feet from icy during silent flight.
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Contents
The Breeding Behavior of Snowy Owl
Snowy owls nest in the Arctic tundra of the northernmost stretches of Alaska, Northern Canada, and the Euro-Siberian region.
They have been known to breed at more southerly latitudes and breed at no more than 3–9-year intervals.
During the breeding season, snowy owls inhabit open areas with low vegetation, where they build nests on the ground.
These nests are simple scrapes in the ground lined with feathers and other insulating materials.
Skilled Diurnal Hunters of the Arctic
Snowy owls are skilled hunters, preying primarily on lemmings, Arctic hares, and various birds.
They are known for their patient and observant hunting style.
Using their keen eyesight, they perch on elevated vantage points or glide low over the ground, scanning for movement that betrays the presence of potential prey.
Their powerful talons and sharp beaks enable them to capture and consume prey efficiently.
Despite their Arctic home, snowy owls are known for occasional irruptions, where they migrate southward searching for food during harsh winters when their prey is scarce.
This behavior allows bird enthusiasts in more temperate regions to catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures.
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Assertive Self-Defense Behavior of Snowy Owl
Snowy owls are known for their assertive nature when it comes to self-defense.
While generally solitary creatures, they can display aggression to protect their territories, nests, and, most importantly, their offspring.
During the breeding season, snowy owls become particularly defensive around their nests, vigorously warding off potential threats.
Moreover, this aggression is not limited to other birds but extends to predators, such as Arctic foxes and even larger birds of prey, that might pose a risk to their eggs or chicks.