SNOWY OWL, 
163 
susliks are largely consumed. Wherever lemmings are on the move, numbers 
of snowy owls are sure to collect. In America these birds will often take the 
musquash from the trap, and in both hemispheres they have been known to fish. 
The nest is usually placed on the bare ground, in a spot raised somewhat above 
the general level of the plain, but it may be situated on a ledge of rock. It is a 
poor affair in the way of structure, the eggs resting merely on a few feathers. 
The usual number of eggs is from four to seven, but in seasons when lemming are 
numerous as many as ten may be laid at considerable intervals of time. Incubation 
commences with the first egg, so that eggs and young are frequently found in the 
nest together. While the female is sitting, the cock-bird remains on the watch 
near by, and gives the alarm in case of danger. According to Mr. Turner’s 
observations, the old birds, and more especially the female, exhibit great boldness 
in defence of their nests, flying close to the head of an intruder with outstretched 
talons and snapping beaks. I 11 such cases the natives are reported to seize hold of 
snowy owl and Lapp owl (J nat. size). 
