The main threat facing snowy owls is climate change. Warming temperatures could have drastic effects on both habitat and the availability of prey, like lemmings. In addition, they also face threats from gunshot wounds and collisions with automobiles, utility lines, and other objects. If plans to open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas development move forward, snowy owls would be at increased risk from interactions with humans and heavy machinery. Since they make their nests on the ground, habitat disturbance and destruction in this vital habitat would be devastating. Recent reports also show that these birds are being illegally killed for their eyes and feet, which are traded in Asian markets.

Your adoption supports our work to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and other important habitat for snowy owls, particularly in the face of global climate change.