Snowy Owl

Question 1

What is the primary reason snowy owls migrate south from the Arctic during winter?

Accepted Answer

Following their main prey species during population cycles

Answer

Escaping the complete darkness of Arctic winter

Answer

Finding suitable nesting sites in warmer climates

Answer

Avoiding competition with polar bears for territory

Question 2

How do male and female snowy owls differ in their appearance?

Accepted Answer

Males are whiter with fewer dark markings than females

Answer

Females have bright yellow eyes while males have orange eyes

Answer

Males are significantly smaller and more compact than females

Answer

Females develop colorful head crests during breeding season

Question 3

What unique hunting adaptation allows snowy owls to be successful predators in their Arctic environment?

Accepted Answer

Asymmetrical ear placement for precise sound location under snow

Answer

Heat-sensing pits similar to those found in snakes

Answer

Retractable ice claws for gripping frozen prey

Answer

Ability to see ultraviolet light reflected by rodent urine

Question 4

What is the scientific name for the snowy owl?

Accepted Answer

Bubo scandiacus

Answer

Strix nebulosa

Answer

Nyctea scandiaca

Answer

Asio flammeus

Question 5

How many eggs does a female snowy owl typically lay in a single clutch?

Accepted Answer

3-11 eggs

Answer

1-2 eggs

Answer

15-20 eggs

Answer

Always exactly 6 eggs

Question 6

What percentage of a snowy owl's diet consists of lemmings in their Arctic breeding grounds?

Accepted Answer

Up to 90%

Answer

About 25%

Answer

Around 50%

Answer

Exactly 100%

Question 7

Which unique physical feature helps snowy owls survive in temperatures as low as -40°F?

Accepted Answer

Feathered feet and toes

Answer

Webbed feet

Answer

Extra large heart

Answer

Antifreeze blood proteins

Question 8

What is the typical lifespan of a snowy owl in the wild?

Accepted Answer

9-10 years

Answer

3-4 years

Answer

25-30 years

Answer

50+ years

Question 9

How do snowy owls communicate over long distances in the vast Arctic tundra?

Accepted Answer

Deep hooting calls that carry up to 6 miles

Answer

Colorful wing displays

Answer

Ground scratching patterns

Answer

Telepathic owl networks

Question 10

What behavioral adaptation do snowy owls use when lemming populations crash in their breeding areas?

Accepted Answer

They may skip breeding entirely for that year

Answer

They hibernate until spring

Answer

They switch to eating only fish

Answer

They grow larger beaks temporarily