Unusual Number of Snowy Owls in Michigan This Winter

He respects Owl, because you can't help respecting anybody who can spell TUESDAY, even if he doesn't spell it right.
~A. A. Milne 

Snowy Owls, normally inhabitants of the Arctic tundra have been spotted in Michigan frequently this winter. There are usually a few of the 2 foot tall snowy white birds spotted this far south annually, but this year there have been an abundance of sitings. The likely reason for the irruption is that lemmings (main source of food for snowy owls) were plentiful last year, leading to an increase in the population. The plethora of young owls is now heading farther south in search of food.

Most of the birds that are being spotted throughout the state are young owls. They do not have much experience with humans so they are not particularly frightened when they see one (or more). This makes them patient subjects for birders to snap photos. The owls are spotted on the ground, perched on poles, and often are seen at airports - the wide open space reminding them of their tundra home.



In Michigan, they mostly eat small voles, mice and rabbits. The young owls may not be very good at hunting yet, and will end up starving. Experts stress the importance of letting the owls feed themselves. Humans will not help by feeding them, as the birds will have to fend when they return to the tundra.

Note: Snowy owls are federally protected, and a special permit is required to possess one.

Something else I learned: Snowy owls are most active in the daytime. They don't perch in trees. Head out early in the day when the birds are waiting to hunt if you are hoping to spot one.