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Snowy Owls Flock to Chicago Amid Arctic Prey Scarcity

11/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A pair of snowy owls has attracted birdwatchers to Chicago's Montrose Harbor.
Their arrival is linked to scarce Arctic prey, prompting migration south.
Snowy owls are typically Arctic birds, but occasionally appear in Chicago during winter.
They are most active at dawn and dusk, hunting for rats and birds.
The Chicago Bird Alliance notes snowy owl sightings vary each winter, with increased activity in past years.

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Story summary

A pair of snowy owls has attracted birdwatchers to Chicago's Montrose Harbor.
Their arrival is linked to scarce Arctic prey, prompting migration south.
Snowy owls are typically Arctic birds, but occasionally appear in Chicago during winter.
They are most active at dawn and dusk, hunting for rats and birds.
The Chicago Bird Alliance notes snowy owl sightings vary each winter, with increased activity in past years.