Arctic Visitors Captivate Chicago's North Side
The appearance of a pair of snowy owls along a Lake Michigan beach has become the talk of Chicago, drawing substantial crowds eager for a glimpse of the majestic Arctic birds. Spotted near the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary on the city's North Side, the owls have sparked both delight and curiosity regarding their unexpected extended stay.
An Unpredictable and Early Arrival
According to the Chicago Ornithological Society, news of the two owls began circulating on birder forums about a week ago. While snowy owls are not considered exceptionally rare in Chicago, their presence is highly variable each winter. Typically, a handful are reported around December, but some years see none at all.
Edward Warden, president of the society, highlighted the challenge in predicting their movements. "Their nomadic nature makes them hard to study or even figure out patterns," he stated. "Where they’re going is anybody’s guess."
This year, the pair arrived earlier than usual and have remained for a longer period. A third owl was also briefly spotted at a beach a few miles to the south. This has prompted speculation among experts about a potential "irruption"—a significant boom migration event where a dozen or more owls could descend on the area.
A Weekend Spectacle for Bird Enthusiasts
The public interest has been immense. On Saturday, 22 November 2025, well over 100 people gathered on a concrete pier extending into the lake to observe the rare visitors. Among them was Sean Clark, a birder and photography enthusiast.
"They were coming and going all day long. It's amazing that the birds are accepting of that many people," Clark remarked. He also witnessed a dramatic moment where the owls were startled by peregrine falcons swooping nearby, an encounter he captured on camera. The owls reacted with wide yellow eyes and flapping wings but held their ground.
Understanding the Snowy Owl's Journey
Snowy owls typically live north of the Arctic Circle during the summer months. In winter, their migration patterns are inconsistent; while some remain in the north, others travel to southern Canada and the northern United States.
On a global scale, the International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the species as "vulnerable", which is one step below endangered. In the Chicago area, their diet is adaptable, consisting of small mammals and waterfowl.
For local birder Alan Hougton, who has been birding for five years, the sighting was a first. His reaction summed up the general feeling: "It was awesome." The continued presence of these Arctic emissaries offers a rare and thrilling wildlife spectacle for the city.
