On The Hunt For Snowy Owls
Native to the Arctic tundra, Snowy Owls can inhabit northern regions of the US during winter months. With piercing yellow eyes, a 5-foot wingspan, and signature white plumes, they are certainly a sight to behold.
Photo courtesy of @ryanzipp
Considered an “irruptive” species, migratory patterns of Snowy Owls don’t follow a seasonal or geographical sentiment per se, rather they are directly tied to food sources. In winter months, they typically leave the Arctic where mean temperatures can sit as low as -30 and -20 °F and food sources are forced to either hibernate or freeze. The owls show up in wide open spaces where they might otherwise find an abundance of small rodents more easily and stay there until prey becomes harder to find in spring months.
We caught up with some friends across New England who have had some luck on the hunt for Snowy Owls. With a little research, preparation, and a tolerance for cold air environments, you could be lucky enough to find a Snowy Owl of your own.
Photo courtesy of @ryanzipp
“I had arrived the day before and any owls I saw were way out in the marsh, so made a plan to start early the next morning and crossed my fingers for better luck. Arriving to the spot at dawn before sunrise, this owl was perched on a fence post alongside the road. As the sun began to rise the sky behind the owl lit up to provide a stunning backdrop for the shot that you see here” - @ryanzipp
Photo courtesy of @manbythesea_
“This snowy was hanging out at Ocean Point in East Boothbay Harbor. I spent the morning trying to photograph the elusive owls along the rocky coast of Boothbay but had no luck. When I arrived back at my truck, this owl was sitting in front of the house I parked at, only 50 yards away. The brightly shining sun made for a unique photo opportunity. I kept my distance as the owl posed. It was a beautiful sight.” - @manbythesea_
Photo courtesy of @manbythesea_
Photo courtesy of @k___elizabeth
“Admittedly, I was walking around hoping to spot this beauty. I knew that this owl frequented this area. Didn’t expect the post and boat to be there! What a moment.” - @k___elizabeth
Photo courtesy of @k___elizabeth
Photo courtesy of @simplymekb
“Back in December, I went off roading at the Cape & by complete chance spotted a snowy owl. She was perched on some driftwood sunbathing during golden hour. Luckily, I had my zoom lens with me and was able to capture this photo from a distance!” - @simplymekb
Photo courtesy of @simplymekb
