Which owl species has the scientific name Bubo scandiacus?

Bubo scandiacus is the scientific name of the snowy owl.

The snowy owl is a large Arctic owl with thick plumage, feathered toes and a mostly white appearance. Its scientific name combines Bubo, a genus used for large horned owls, with scandiacus, referring to Scandinavia. Older sources may use the name Nyctea scandiaca because the species was once placed in a separate genus.

Unlike many owls, snowy owls often hunt in daylight. Continuous summer light in the Arctic makes daytime activity practical, and the birds can also remain active during winter daylight. Their diet includes lemmings, which can strongly influence breeding success and movements.

Males generally become whiter with age, while females and young birds usually retain more dark barring. During irruptions, some snowy owls travel far south of their usual Arctic range, creating occasional winter sightings in temperate regions.