Why Snowy Owl Nests are Unique (+ free printable)

Snowy Owls are one of the few bird species who has a nest on the GROUND! Make sure to listen to our snowy owl episode to dig deeper.

Why is this strange?

Most birds build nests high in trees or other difficult to reach places in order to escape predators. However, since snowy owls prefer to nest in the middle of the tundra - where there are no trees - this version of nest fits their desires perfectly.

Birds who build nests on the ground like this are called “ground nesters”. They nest in a groove in the ground - sometimes under plant leaves or deep snow to hide from predators.

The female snowy owl does the nest building by digging a groove in the ground with her claws and beak. She then shapes the nest by pressing her body into the sides of it to create a circle shape. It takes a few days for her to complete the nest, but the nest is used for years to come.

How cool is this?

Other birds who build nests on the ground include: swans, penguins, flamingos, ducks and others.

For a free coloring page highlighting these amazing animals, make sure to click the button below for an instant download!

For more information on different types of cool nests birds are able to build based on where they live + what they need for survival, check out these books below! Disclaimer: These are affiliate links.