In November 2021, three juvenile snowy owls were observed in northern Spain, provoking curiosity about their origins. A recent study indicates these owls were not European but likely born in Arctic regions like North America or Greenland. Biologist Carlos Gutierrez-Exposito confirmed they weren't zoo escapees, suggesting they may have lost their way during seasonal migrations. The researchers analyzed feather isotopes to determine their origins, revealing they were distinct individuals and providing insight into the owl’s migratory behaviors in relation to changing Arctic resources.
The analysis showed that the juvenile snowy owls sighted in Spain likely originated from Arctic regions like North America, Greenland, or Russia, not Europe.
Biologist Carlos Gutierrez-Exposito emphasized that these owls were not born in Spain and likely got lost while traveling south due to climate conditions.
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