The grey owl is a magnificent bird of prey that can be found across Canada, Alaska, and the northern United States. With striking grey and brown plumage and large, bright yellow eyes, the grey owl is a treat for any birdwatcher to spot in the wild. But where are the best places to catch a glimpse of this elusive owl in its natural habitat? Read on for an overview of prime grey owl viewing locations and tips for successful grey owl sightings.
About the Grey Owl
Before diving into the top places to see the grey owl, let’s go over some quick facts about this fascinating raptor:
- Species name: Strix nebulosa
- Wingspan: Up to 150 cm
- Body length: 55-69 cm
- Weight: 500–1700 g
- Lifespan: Up to 10 years in the wild
- Diet: Small mammals like voles, mice, rabbits, and squirrels
- Active: Mostly dusk and dawn
- Nesting: Tree cavities; does not build its own nest
The grey owl is the largest owl in North America and can sometimes be spotted hunting during daylight hours, especially in the long days of summer at northern latitudes. While not considered threatened, grey owl populations saw declines in the 20th century due to habitat loss before rebounding in recent decades.
When to See Grey Owls
Grey owls are present year-round throughout their range, but they are most active and easiest to spot during breeding season from March to June. The rest of the year, they are less vocal and more likely to be roosting in dense conifers or other secluded areas.
Here is a quick overview of the best times to spot grey owls by season:
Spring
Late March to June is peak breeding season. Males will be singing and calling frequently to establish territories and attract mates. Females may be spotted around nest cavities.
Summer
Breeding activities continue into July. Recently fledged young may be visible being fed by parents. Owls are actively hunting to feed nestlings.
Fall
September to November offer continued chances to spot greys on the hunt and migrating south within their breeding range. Juveniles dispersing from nests are also on the move.
Winter
December to February bring harsh conditions and grey owls reduce activity, but they can still be observed on sunny days or around feeders.
Where to See Grey Owls in Canada
Some of the best places in North America to spot wild grey owls are across Canada’s boreal forest and aspen parklands:
Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario
This famous park of over 7,700 square km is considered one of the top birding destinations for spotting grey owls in Ontario and eastern Canada. Prime areas include the Highway 60 corridor.
Sax-Zim Bog, Minnesota
The vast wetlands around Sax-Zim Bog near the Minnesota-Canada border provide excellent grey owl habitat. Owls can often be found near bird feeders here.
Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan
The aspens and conifers of this huge national park create perfect grey owl habitat. The owl is a common year-round resident here.
Yellowstone to Yukon Region (Y2Y)
This mountainous region spanning from Yellowstone to northern Yukon is an stronghold for greys. Productive areas include Banff and Jasper National Parks.
Central British Columbia
The interior and northern regions of British Columbia, especially around Prince George, are reliable spots for grey owl observations.
Northern Manitoba
The boreal and tundra regions of Manitoba, especially the west side of Lake Winnipeg, support healthy grey owl populations that provide frequent sightings.
Where to See Grey Owls in the United States
While less common than in Canada, grey owls can also be observed at select locations in the northern United States:
Northern Minnesota
Located along the southern edge of their range, northern Minnesota provides the best grey owl sighting opportunities in the lower 48 states in areas like Superior National Forest.
Western Montana
Owls reside year-round in northwest Montana and have been expanding their range south in recent decades, with Glacier National Park as a hotspot.
Wyoming
The northwest corner of Wyoming represents the southern limit of the grey owl’s range. Spotting opportunities exist in Bridger-Teton National Forest.
Northern Michigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has breeding grey owls at locations like Seney National Wildlife Refuge and Hiawatha National Forest.
Northern New England
Rare sightings happen in the northernmost parts of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, particularly during periodic irruption years.
Pacific Northwest
Rare vagrants turn up in winter at times in northeastern Washington and northern Idaho.
Tips for Spotting Grey Owls
Seeing a grey owl in the wild involves both luck and strategy. Here are some top tips to improve your chances:
- Target boreal habitat with conifers, aspens, and wetlands
- Listen for territorial calls at dawn and dusk in spring
- Scan tree cavities and natural nest platforms like old raptor nests
- Watch tree lines and roadsides around openings at dawn and dusk
- Check areas near bird feeders where prey may congregate
- Use birding apps and hotlines to locate recent sightings
- Be patient and still to avoid spooking owls if you spot one
- Go with experienced birders familiar with local owl hotspots
Best Times of Day
Grey owls are most active at:
- Dawn
- Dusk
- Middle of night during nesting season
- Occasionally daytime in breeding season when feeding nestlings
Focus efforts around those peak activity periods for best luck.
Conclusion
Spotting a majestic grey owl in the wild is a thrilling treat for any bird enthusiast or nature lover. Your best chances lie within the boreal forests of Canada, particularly hotspots like Algonquin Provincial Park and Sax-Zim Bog. But with some planning and luck, grey owl sightings are also possible across parts of the northern United States, especially Minnesota and Montana. Target the dawn and dusk hours in spring breeding season and be sure to check reported owl locations and recent sightings. With persistence and the right habitat, you’ll hopefully be rewarded with a glimpse of those huge yellow eyes or a soft hooting call emanating from the northern forest.
Location | Region | Top Spots | Best Time of Year |
---|---|---|---|
Algonquin Provincial Park | Ontario | Highway 60 Corridor | March to June |
Sax-Zim Bog | Northern Minnesota | Bird Feeders | February to July |
Prince Albert National Park | Saskatchewan | Aspen and Conifer Forests | Year-round |
Yellowstone to Yukon Region | Northern U.S. Rockies to Yukon | Banff and Jasper National Parks | March to September |
Central British Columbia | British Columbia | Around Prince George | April to July |
Northern Manitoba | Manitoba | West side of Lake Winnipeg | Year-round |
Northern Minnesota | Minnesota | Superior National Forest | December to August |
Northwest Montana | Montana | Glacier National Park | Year-round |
Northwest Wyoming | Wyoming | Bridger-Teton National Forest | March to November |
Upper Peninsula, Michigan | Michigan | Seney NWR, Hiawatha NF | February to July |