9. Snowy Owl
Injury
The Snowy Owl – the large white bird immortalized by the Harry Potter series – is the most northerly bird of prey on the planet. Snowy Owls breed on the tundra around the Arctic Circle, and can tolerate temperatures as low as -50. The birds stand over 18 inches tall, with a wingspan of over 4 feet. Their weight can exceed 6 pounds. When walking on the arctic tundra, one must keep a cautious eye out for apparent patches of unmelted snow on the expanse of ground-cover vegetation.
The nest site of the “Ookpik” may be closely approached without any sign of alarm. But as soon as a threat is perceived, the patch of “snow” may burst into life as the Snowy Owl rushes to confront the trespasser. If the threat is a human, the owl may target the face and head with its razor sharped talons. Serious injuries – especially to the eyes – are a definite possibility. Bending over and protecting the face is a must – along with a hasty retreat.
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