Snowy Owls, known for their gorgeous appearance and love of winter, were at one point native to the UK. However, due to factors such as climate change and the industrialization of the area, the bird has since left the England area. Recently, Snowy Owls have been spotted in the United Kingdom, marking a possible return to the species. While difficult and extremely rare, it seems as if spotting the majestic bird in the UK is not impossible. With a little research and determination, you could be the next one to spot this rare, majestic bird right in the UK.
Habitat of the Snowy Owl
To find such a rare owl, you’ll need to factor in its climate and habitat. The Snowy Owl is usually found in the Arctic Circle, with some limited migration south in the winter. Usually, the owl will only go so far south as Canada, Russia, Norway or Denmark, but in particularly sparse winters they will go as far as the UK for food. The best time to find these birds in the UK is in the middle of winter, when it is very cold out and welcoming to the arctic owl. The owl also seems to avoid the mainland, instead sticking to the outer islands of the UK.
Snowy Owl’s Prey
Snowy Owls are very skilled hunters, and will almost always be found where their food is. The birds feast upon rodents and small mammals, so anywhere in nature that’s infested with mice, hares or squirrels are popular hunting grounds for the owl. The owl has been known to eat shore birds, such as grouse, ducks and geese, as a last resort when better food is not around. Areas somewhat close to a shore with plenty of berries, nuts and other food for rodents would be the best chance to find a Snowy Owl.
The Snowy Owl in the UK
The most common place to find these birds in the UK is in northern Scotland, in particular the Outer Hebrides, which are off the northwest coast of Scotland. It has been reported that the area has become a common winter getaway for the Snowy Owl, which are attracted to the island’s beautiful untouched habitats. Oddly enough, there have been owl sightings south of England as well, with sightings of the rare owl in Cornwall, Guernsney and Alderney. With the owl going that far south, it seems that anywhere in the UK is fair game to spot this rare owl.
With increased sightings of the Snowy Owl over the past ten years, looking for the owl in the UK is becoming less and less rare. If you were to plan an outing, taking into account the habitat, wildlife and sightings in the area, you will have a very good chance of finding the Snowy Owl. Remember, as a threatened species, it is important to take only photographs and leave only footprints when searching for the bird. With proper caution, the Snowy Owl will become a common sight for all to enjoy in the United Kingdom.