SNOWY OWL

This species of owl nests on the ground, building a scrape on top of a mound or boulder. A site with good visibility is chosen, such as the top of a mound with ready access to hunting areas and a lack of snow. This powerful bird relies primarily on lemmings and other small rodents for food during the breeding season, but at times of low prey density, or during the ptarmigan nesting period, they may switch to favouring juvenile ptarmigan. It is a rare visitor to the UK, last being seen on the Shetland Isles.

7cm x 9cm