Milwaukee County is having a bit of an Arctic moment. A snowy owl, a bird usually found thousands of miles north on the tundra, has been showing up at several spots around the county, stopping people in their tracks and pulling crowds outdoors with cameras and binoculars in hand.
Wildlife officials say the owl appears healthy and is behaving normally. They are asking the public to enjoy the sight from a distance and to resist the urge to get closer for photos. Large crowds and sudden movement can stress the bird and interfere with its ability to rest and hunt.
How the story unfolded
For longtime Birder Jim Edlhuber, the sighting was especially meaningful. After hearing reports of the owl’s arrival over the weekend, he did not hesitate to head out.
“I got in the car and drove right there,” Edlhuber said. “The snowy owl is the bird that first got me interested in birding.”
Snowy owls are not common in Wisconsin, but every few years some travel farther south than usual in search of food. This natural movement, known as an irruption, can bring the birds into unexpected places, including open fields, shorelines, and quiet industrial areas.
Veteran birder and tour guide Mark Korducki believes the owl seen in Milwaukee County is a female, based on her size and markings. He says sightings like this remind people how unpredictable nature can be.
“One of the amazing things about birds is that you never really know where they will show up,” Korducki said. “That sense of surprise is what keeps people paying attention.”
Even those who do not follow birds closely tend to recognize a snowy owl. Its bright white feathers and frequent appearances in popular culture make it one of the most familiar owls in North America. Local birders hope the excitement surrounding this visit will inspire greater respect for wildlife and the natural spaces that support it.
For now, experts say the best way to appreciate this rare visitor is simple. Watch quietly, keep your distance, and let the owl continue her journey in peace.
Why this sighting matters
Snowy owls rarely appear in Wisconsin. When one does, it offers a rare window into how wildlife responds to changing food conditions and shifting environments.
