Arctic Travelers
Published: 09/01/2013 Updated: 08/08/2019
Photo By Neal Maine
The majestic and rarely seen Snowy Owl occasionally winters on the "tundra" of the North Oregon Coast
Though the Northwest coast isn't exactly known for its whopping snowfall, it remains an attractive wintering ground for some North American Snowy Owls. Most of these stunning birds spend their summers north of the Arctic Circle; winter destinations are highly variable. Some stay local, some migrate south into Canada and the Northeastern US, while others deviate into regions atypical of the birds' migration pattern. During irruptive years, the deviants are numerous and find themselves in such unlikely places as the Northwest coast. Beaches and mudflats function as approximate tundra and the highly adaptable birds of prey shift their diet from lemmings and ptarmigans to rats and waterfowl. The Snowy Owls' lucent plumage, diurnal habits and tendency to roost in open, treeless areas make them easier to spot than most owls, so grab your binoculars and check the beaches. Locales of past sightings include Florence, Yaquina Bay and Seaside, but most dependable is the South jetty of the Columbia at Fort Stevens State Park, especially in December.
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Oregon’s walkable, bikeable, lovable beach town with lots to see and do. It’s easy to Seaside.
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Home to Clatsop County’s Historical Society archives, research library and local history exhibits.
Cannon Beach Activities & Attractions
We offer treatments that restore your signature balance, using creative and advanced techniques.
Published: 09/01/2013 Updated: 08/08/2019
Photo By Neal Maine
The majestic and rarely seen Snowy Owl occasionally winters on the "tundra" of the North Oregon Coast
Though the Northwest coast isn't exactly known for its whopping snowfall, it remains an attractive wintering ground for some North American Snowy Owls. Most of these stunning birds spend their summers north of the Arctic Circle; winter destinations are highly variable. Some stay local, some migrate south into Canada and the Northeastern US, while others deviate into regions atypical of the birds' migration pattern. During irruptive years, the deviants are numerous and find themselves in such unlikely places as the Northwest coast. Beaches and mudflats function as approximate tundra and the highly adaptable birds of prey shift their diet from lemmings and ptarmigans to rats and waterfowl. The Snowy Owls' lucent plumage, diurnal habits and tendency to roost in open, treeless areas make them easier to spot than most owls, so grab your binoculars and check the beaches. Locales of past sightings include Florence, Yaquina Bay and Seaside, but most dependable is the South jetty of the Columbia at Fort Stevens State Park, especially in December.
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SPONSORED LINKS
Featured Destination
Oregon’s walkable, bikeable, lovable beach town with lots to see and do. It’s easy to Seaside.
Astoria Activities & Attractions
A local and national landmark depicts the Victorian era and family history of Captain George Flavel.
Seaside Activities & Attractions
Harbor seals greet visitors at the door, explore touch-me tanks and learn about tidepool creatures.
Lincoln City Activities & Attractions
Blow your own glass art or explore the one-of-a-kind on-site gallery featuring local artists.