Snowy Owls Come Back To The Jersey Shore

Snowy owls have been migrating to the Shore area the past few years, and they've been spotted again this year.

Snowy owls typically live in the Arctic areas of North America and Europe, but when food gets scarce they have been known to venture further south. Bird experts say the owls prefer open fields, beaches, and sand dunes, all of which are similar to their native habitat.

The Audubon Society offers a guide on how to find snowy owls and another on how to view them respectfully. It's a remider to keep your distance from the birds, who are hungry, tired, and stressed from their journey.

Island Beach State Park officials also want to remind people to respect the area's ecosystem, and not to trample the dunes.

If you spot any of these beautiful birds, we'd love to share your pictures!

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