Understanding Great Gray Owl Irruptions in Quebec: A Fascinating Phenomenon

Since the beginning of the year, a phenomenon has captured the attention of birding enthusiasts in Quebec: the irruption of Great Gray Owls (Strix nebulosa). These magnificent raptors, emblematic of boreal forests, sometimes move south in large numbers, and this year is no exception. Whether you're a birding enthusiast or simply curious, here’s everything you need to know about these spectacular movements, their causes, and their impact.

What is an irruption?

An irruption refers to the sudden and unusual movement of a large population of birds outside their usual range. For Great Gray Owls, these cyclical movements bring them from boreal regions to the south, making them more visible in places like Quebec.

Why are so many Great Gray Owls being spotted this year?

Since January, reports of Great Gray Owls have been documented in no fewer than 10 regional county municipalities (MRCs) across the province, clearly indicating an ongoing irruption. This phenomenon is influenced by several factors:

• Food availability: The Great Gray Owl is closely tied to vole populations, particularly the red-backed vole, which makes up a significant portion of its diet. When vole numbers decline in boreal regions, these raptors move south in search of food.
• Weather conditions: Although perfectly adapted to harsh winters, the Great Gray Owl prefers hunting in snowy conditions. Local weather can influence their movements.
• Cyclical movements: Historically, Great Gray Owl irruptions follow natural cycles. The winters of 1983–1984 and 2004–2005 saw the largest invasions in Quebec, with hundreds of individuals reported. More recently, smaller irruptions occurred in 2017 and 2022.

This year, similar irruptions were observed in western regions, such as Minnesota, before the owls moved east. If the trend continues, 2025 could rival, or even surpass, the sightings of 2017.

Challenges of public sightings

Great Gray Owl irruptions generate significant interest among birdwatchers and photographers. However, this attention can sometimes pose challenges. Some observers choose to limit the public sharing of precise locations (e.g., on eBird) to avoid crowds that could disturb these owls or their habitats.

It’s important to note that these restrictions are not based on data showing increased mortality or specific protection status but rather on the desire to minimize human impact. Birding enthusiasts must act ethically and respectfully when seeking to observe these magnificent raptors.

Tips for observing Great Gray Owls

If you’d like to spot a Great Gray Owl this winter, keep these tips in mind:

• Be patient: These raptors move through varied areas and can be challenging to find.
• Respect their space: Approach cautiously and avoid disturbing the owls, especially when they are hunting or resting.
• Use proper equipment: Binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens will allow you to observe them from a distance without intrusion.

A promising year for birding enthusiasts

With the current irruption, the winter of 2025 promises to be a memorable season for birdwatchers in Quebec. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this is a rare opportunity to see an iconic bird in our region.

So, get your gear ready, join the BirdzNow community, and let yourself be amazed by the spectacle of Great Gray Owls!

Happy birding!