Snowy Owls Spotted Near Montrose Bird Sanctuary, Drawing Crowds To Lakefront Park

A pair of snowy owls has captivated birders and photographers at Montrose Harbor in Chicago, where they have become a temporary attraction. Their exact arrival date is uncertain, but reports have circulated on birder forums for about a week. Snowy owls inhabit the Arctic for most of the year, migrating south only when prey becomes scarce. The Chicago Bird Alliance notes that younger owls might also travel south to establish territories or find mates. These owls typically hunt at dawn and dusk but are also active during the day, favoring rats on the North Side and birds further south.

Chicago witnessed an increase in snowy owl sightings during the 2011-2012 winter, leading to research efforts involving their pellets to understand their diet. Observers appreciate the owls' keen vision and hearing, which aid in locating prey. Their presence highlights the dynamic nature of avian migration patterns in urban environments.