scandiacus

Scandiacus is the species epithet associated with the snowy owl, whose currently accepted scientific name is Bubo scandiacus. The species was historically placed in the genus Nyctea as Nyctea scandiaca, but many taxonomic authorities now classify it in the genus Bubo. The name scandiacus reflects its Arctic associations.

The snowy owl is a large, predominantly white owl adapted to Arctic conditions. Adults are mostly white with occasional dark markings on the wings and back, while juveniles show more extensive brown and black markings. They have a round facial disk, bright yellow eyes, and a wingspan typically ranging from about 125 to 155 centimeters. Females are generally heavier than males.

Geographically, scandiacus is native to the circumpolar Arctic, spanning tundra regions of North America and Eurasia. It breeds on open, treeless or sparsely vegetated tundra and often winters further south, moving southward in response to prey availability and seasonal conditions. Its habitat preferences include open areas such as coastal plains, plateaus, and scree fields where it can spot prey from a distance.

Behavior and diet are closely tied to prey cycles, especially lemmings. Snowy owls hunt by day in areas with continuous daylight during Arctic summers and primarily by sight and sound discipline in winter darkness. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, particularly lemmings, but can also include birds and carrion. They nest on the ground, often using sites cleared by other birds or in scrapes; clutches typically contain 3–11 eggs, incubated by both parents for about 32 days.

Conservation status is listed as Least Concern by major organizations, with populations generally stable or fluctuating with prey availability. Ongoing climate change and habitat shifts influence their range and behavior, but the species remains one of the most recognizable symbols of the Arctic environment.