Snowy owl

The snowy owl is a striking white bird that calls the Arctic tundra home. Unlike most owls, it thrives in open snowy landscapes and stands out as the only owl species with mostly white feathers. Males become nearly pure white as adults, while females keep some dark speckles.

• Young males have dark markings that fade to white as they grow.
• Their wing patterns help scientists determine age and gender.
• They nest directly on the ground in the open tundra.