SNOWY OWL Meaning and
Definition
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Snowy owl is a species of large, Arctic bird scientifically known as Bubo scandiacus. It is a magnificent bird of prey that resides mainly in the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. The snowy owl is easily recognizable due to its distinctive appearance. It has a striking white plumage that helps it blend perfectly with its snowy surroundings, making it one of the few birds that are almost entirely white. Only the males have darker markings, including black spots and bars on the wings and tail. Females, on the other hand, have a heavier amount of dark markings, which provide better camouflage when nesting.
Snowy owls have a wingspan that can reach up to five feet, making them one of the largest owl species. They have powerful yellow eyes and a rounded face with a black beak. These majestic birds have excellent hearing and eyesight, allowing them to locate their prey with great accuracy. As mainly diurnal hunters, snowy owls primarily feed on small mammals like lemmings, voles, rabbits, and birds. They have a unique hunting technique where they perch on elevated spots such as rocks or mounds, silently watching for any movements before swooping down to capture their prey.
Snowy owls are known for their long-distance migrations. During the breeding season, they travel to the high Arctic tundra to build their nests on the ground. They construct their nests using whatever natural materials they can find, such as grass, moss, and feathers. The female owl lays a clutch of eggs usually ranging from three to eleven, which she incubates for approximately a month. The young owlets hatch asynchronously, which means they vary in age and size. Once they fledge, the juvenile snowy owls gradually develop their adult plumage over a period of three
Etymology of SNOWY OWL
The word "snowy owl" has a straightforward etymology.
1. "Snowy" refers to the characteristic color of the owl's plumage. It comes from the Middle English word "snowi", which is derived from the Old English word "snáw" meaning "snow".
2. "Owl" comes from the Old English word "ule", which evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "*uwulon" and ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root "*uhu-", imitating the owl's hooting sound.
Combining these two terms, "snowy owl" simply refers to an owl with snowy white feathers.
