The Snowy Owl is a very large, diurnal owl of the Arctic tundra. During the winter it occurs in open fields of southern Canada and the northern United States. It is our largest owl and its nearly pure white plumage is unmistakable. It has a relatively small, round head, without visible ear tufts, and yellow eyes. Its overall white plumage is variably barred or speckled with thin, black, horizontal bars or spots. Females and juveniles are more heavily marked than males. It is a powerful flier, usually seen skimming over the ground or perched on a post or scrubby tree.
Size
The Snowy Owl is the largest North American owl. Females are about 10% larger than males. Lengths average 26 inches (66 centimeters) for females and 23 inches (59 centimeters) for males. Wingspans average 65 inches (164 centimeters) for females and 62 inches (158 centimeters) for males. Weights average 3.75 pounds (1,707 grams) for females and 3.55 pounds (1,612 grams) for males.
Specific Description
Adult
-refer to above
-all white, very large, diurnal owl
Similar Species
Snowy Owls could be confused with Arctic Great Horned Owls, which are very pale, but have prominent ear tufts, which are absent in Snowy Owls. White phase Gyrfalcons and ptarmigan in winter are both white-plumaged birds but look nothing like an owl. Barn Owls look almost white, especially when seen at night, but have prominent facial discs and an orangish-brown back
Other Names
It has also been known as Arctic Owl, Great White Owl, White Owl, Tundra Ghost, Ookpik, Scandinavian Nightbird, Ghost Owl, Ermine Owl, White Terror of the North, and Highland Tundra Owl.
Etymology
The scientific name Nyctea scandiaca translates into "nocturnal owl of Scandinavia".
Mythology
In parts of northern England it is good luck to see a Snowy Owl. In Romania, the souls of repentant sinners flew to heaven in the guise of a Snowy Owl. In ancient Greece, a magical "inner light" gives owls night vision. From rock paintings in France, the Snowy Owl is the oldest recognized bird species in paleolithic rock art.