Size and Build:
- The snowy owl is a large owl, with an average wingspan of around 140-165 cm (55-65 inches).
- It stands around 53-66 cm (21-26 inches) tall.
- It weighs between 1.6 to 2.5 kg (3.5 to 5.5 pounds), with females generally being larger than males.
Plumage:
- The snowy owl is unmistakable due to its pure white plumage.
- Its feathers have a soft and fluffy texture, providing insulation against the cold Arctic environment.
- Some snowy owls, particularly in the Eurasian subspecies, may have faint dark barring or spotting, but this is less common.
Eyes:
- The snowy owl has large, round, and piercing yellow eyes.
- These eyes are well-adapted for low-light conditions, enabling the owl to hunt effectively during the long polar nights.
Beak:
- The beak of the snowy owl is relatively short and hooked, typical of owls.
- It is black or dark gray in color.
- The beak is powerful and used for tearing flesh and dismembering prey.
Legs and Feet:
- The snowy owl has long and well-feathered legs, providing insulation against the cold.
- Its feet are covered in dense white feathers, which helps distribute its weight on the snow.
- The talons are black, sharp, and powerful, used for capturing, holding, and killing prey.
Wings:
- The snowy owl has long, broad, and rounded wings.
- These wings are adapted for silent flight, allowing the owl to silently approach its unsuspecting prey.
- The undersides of the wings are white, while the upper sides may have some black markings near the wingtips.
Overall, the snowy owl's appearance is striking, with its pure white plumage, bright yellow eyes, and powerful talons. It is perfectly adapted to its cold Arctic habitat and is a majestic sight in the snowy landscapes it inhabits.