This year presents a unique opportunity for observing snowy owls in southern Canada. Over the weekend, The Owl Foundation, located in Ontario’s Niagara region, shared on Facebook that they have already taken in two young snowy owls, indicating a potential increase in snowy owl activity this year. A surge in the local population of a species, known as an irruption, is occurring, with more young snowy owls being sighted earlier than usual in southern Canada and the northern U.S. This uptick in snowy owl sightings may provide a chance to witness these rare visitors from the North, recently classified as threatened by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada.
Brian Hayhoe, a wildlife biologist and rehabilitator at The Owl Foundation, mentioned that in previous winters, the center typically received zero to two snowy owls each year, usually not until December or January. Other wildlife centers in Ontario have also reported higher numbers of snowy owls earlier than usual, as they are often the first to notice such trends.
Recent snowy owl sightings near Chicago have drawn attention, hinting at a potential irruption year. Scott Weidensaul, a researcher with Project SNOWstorm, noted that most southern snowy owl sightings have been concentrated in the central and western Great Lakes and the Prairies. However, sightings have extended as far west as British Columbia, where snowy owls have rarely been seen in recent years.
An irruption is a significant movement of birds that occurs periodically, unlike regular migrations. Snowy owl irruptions, which bring these birds south in large numbers approximately every six years, have been documented in previous years. Peak snowy owl numbers have not been as pronounced in the past decade, suggesting potential issues in their breeding areas in the north.
The presence of abundant food sources in the Arctic, such as lemmings, leads to increased snowy owl reproduction and subsequent irruptions as the birds search for food in the fall. While snowy owls are typically found in the Prairies during winter, irruption years see a higher proportion of juvenile owls venturing further south.
To observe snowy owls responsibly, it is advised to maintain a respectful distance and adhere to bird-watching etiquette to avoid disturbing the birds. Given the challenges that snowy owls already face, such as habitat loss and climate change, minimizing human impact on these majestic creatures is crucial for their conservation.
Birds Canada has reported a significant decline in snowy owl populations since 1970, with climate change, habitat loss, and vehicle collisions identified as key factors contributing to their decline. Efforts to protect snowy owls have been recommended, including their potential inclusion on Canada’s list of threatened species. Observing snowy owls can serve as a reminder of the threats facing Arctic wildlife, fostering a deeper connection to the importance of conservation efforts.
