The snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus) is a distinctive and majestic bird of prey native to the Arctic region of the Northern Hemisphere. Standing over 20 inches tall with a wingspan of up to 5 feet, this mostly white owl is a formidable hunter that can capture a variety of prey, including rodents, fish, birds, and even other raptors. The snowy owl has adapted seamlessly to thriving in the harsh and extreme conditions of the tundra where it breeds. With its distinctive appearance and charismatic nature, the snowy owl has fascinated humans from many cultures. Let’s dive deeper into its naming origins and history.
Etymology of “Snowy Owl”
The common name “snowy owl” is fairly self-explanatory, referencing the bird’s stunning and nearly pure white plumage, interrupted with sparse dusky spots and bars. Its scientific name, Bubo scandiacus, however, has a more nuanced story behind it. Bubo is the Latin word for owl or horned owl, referencing this bird of prey’s status within that family. The species name scandiacus originated from Scandinavia, where early specimens were often obtained. So scandiacus essentially means “of Scandinavia.” The snowy owl is sometimes also referred to as the polar owl, white owl, Arctic owl, or Icelandic owl.
Indigenous and Cultural Names
Beyond its common English name, the snowy owl goes by many other traditional names amongst various Indigenous peoples and cultures worldwide. Here are some examples:
- Inuktitut (language of the Inuit): okpik
- Cree: wapow
- Ojibwe: gogoosh
- Miꞌkmaq: kookoogow
- Algonquin: kaweeshegeezhigoonzh
- Chipewyan: thothohcho
- Norwegian: snøugle
- Swedish: fjälluggla
- Finnish: huuhkaja
- Russian: белая сова (bielaya sova)
Many of these names, like the English name, make reference to the owl’s beautiful white and pure-looking plumage. The Inuit name “okpik,” for example, means “white owl” or “snowy owl.” The Norwegian name “snøugle” translates to “snow owl.” These names capture the snowy owl’s quintessential appearance and tie it closely to the Arctic and snowy environments it inhabits.
Significance in Indigenous Cultures
Beyond just naming the snowy owl, many Indigenous Arctic peoples integrated this bird culturally in various ways.
For the Inuit, the okpik or snowy owl was a respected bird that played an important role. Its pure white feathers were treasured and used to line and decorate clothing. Snowy owl wings were used in ceremonial fans. Okpik was also a common Inuit name for girls.
Various Native American tribes like the Cree and Ojibwe viewed the snowy owl as a significant messenger, sometimes associated with prophecy. Sighting a snowy owl was seen as an omen or sign.
Across these cultures, the snowy owl’s mysterious nature, Arctic origins, and striking appearance cemented it as a revered and mythologized bird. It occupied an intriguing space between the natural and spiritual world.
Role in Norse Mythology
In Norse mythology, the snowy owl held symbolic importance. The goddess Freyja had a cloak of snowy owl feathers that allowed her to transform into a snowy owl herself.
There are also accounts that Vikings would carry snowy owl talons and feathers into battle believing they held magical powers of invincibility.
The Norse connected the presence of snowy owls with the goddess Freyja, so seeing one was considered a blessing or message from her. Again, the snowy owl acted as a bridge between the mortal and divine.
Harry Potter Connections
In the beloved Harry Potter series, snowy owls are the chosen pets and messengers for students of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Harry’s loyal companion Hedwig is a snowy owl that acts as a friend and courier delivering messages and packages throughout the books.
Author J.K. Rowling chose the snowy owl specifically for its mythic associations but also because it provided a visually striking avian contrast against the darkness of the novels’ villain Lord Voldemort and his followers who favor black ravens.
For an entire generation of fans, snowy owls are ingrained as symbols of the magical world that provide comfort and guidance for the heroes.
Protection and Conservation
Despite its powerful talons and large size, the snowy owl faces threats from humans. Collisions with vehicles and aircraft are common, as the owls live in remote open tundra landscapes that are now crisscrossed by roads and flight paths. Habitat loss, climate change, and environmental toxins also endanger snowy owl populations.
The species is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the US and Canada. It is also a CITES Appendix II listed species, meaning monitoring and regulation is required for international trade. If you are lucky enough to see a snowy owl in the wild, maintain a respectful distance and do not disturb the bird as it rests or hunts. With care and awareness, we can preserve the snowy owl to be admired for generations to come.
Conclusion
The majestic snowy owl has earned many intriguing names and cultural meanings across Indigenous groups, Scandinavian mythology, literature, and popular culture. But this unique Arctic raptor remains an integral and beautiful part of the natural ecosystems it has inhabited for millennia. Protecting it and its tundra habitat will allow the okpik, snøugle, Hedwig, and simple snowy owl to persist as icons of the North.