- Nyctea scandiaca
Synonyms: Bubo scandiacus
Identification
L. 23-28 in. W. up to 5 ft *White, with varying amounts of dark barring on its feathers. *Adult males can be pure white, while immature females show the most barring *Adult females and immature males are similar in appearance, but males are distinguished by a more extensive white bib and a mostly white nape *Bright golden eyes *Feathering on legs and feet *Talons and beak black
Distribution
A circumpolar, holarctic species. Found in northern latitudes around the world. In winter, irrupts irregularly to more southerly latitudes every few years. In North America, it can be found slightly more consistently south to the northern US.
Taxonomy
Habitat
Marshes, beaches, and other open areas, often seen on airport runways
Behaviour
Diet: In breeding season, predominantly lemmings. Breeding success often depends on the abundance of these rodents. An accomplished hunter. Known to take a wide variety of birds, including ptarmigan, shorebirds, songbirds, and waterfowl, which can even be captured in flight after a pursuit. Another favourite is rabbits and particularly snowshoe hare. Reported to even snag fish from water.
