Chester Zoo 

Snowy Owl

Snowy Owl (Nyctea scandiaca)

The scientific names Nyctea and scandiaca mean by night and from Scandinavia. Adult males are almost pure white. Females tend to be larger and heavier with dark markings.

Snowy Owls feed on small mammals. They mainly eat lemmings and voles. They are found in th open country of the Arctic Tundra, across north America, Europe and Asia. The European populations are vulnerable.

Depending on food supply, 2-14 eggs are laid at 2 day intervals. Chicks fledge about 32 days after hatching. Lifespan in the wild is about 10 years.

Unlike most birds, Snowy Owl feet are thickly covered in feathers to protect against the cold.