Snowy Owl Sightings Increase in Wisconsin

Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 -- 9:00 AM

(Shereen Siewert and Robin Washington, Wisconsin Public Radio) After two winters with low numbers, snowy owl sightings have increased in Wisconsin this season, delighting birders and nature enthusiasts seeking a glimpse of these striking Arctic visitors.

According to Shereen Siewert and Robin Washington with Wisconsin Public Radio, during a typical winter, many snowy owls remain close to their breeding areas while others head south into southern Canada and the northern U.S., according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

A sighting near Wausau was among the first to be reported this winter, though dozens more have now been documented. Bird enthusiast Richard Hoeg documents his findings on his website, 365 Days of Birds.

He says the greater Twin Ports area is just one part of Wisconsin experiencing a proliferation, called an irruption, of the raptors, who have descended on Superior’s general aviation airport as a favorite hunting ground.

“It’s not a major airport, so the snowy owls don’t have to be trapped and relocated” to be kept clear of jet engines, Hoeg told WPR’s “Morning Edition” host Robin Washington.

“I’ve talked to a lot of small plane pilots who enjoy seeing the snowy owls.” With their brilliant white feathers and commanding presence, snowy owls are among the most unique raptors to visit the region.

Unlike most owls, which are nocturnal, snowy owls are active during the day, making them more visible to the public. But their presence in urban settings, including airports, highways and farm fields, often raises questions about why they appear in such unexpected places.

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