Apparition

The germ of this painting dates back to my very first sighting of Snowy Owl, back in 2011.  However, it took a few more "irruptive" winters before I was able to paint this species successfully.  An "Irruption" is when a species seasonal movements takes it further from its usual range; the exact cause is unknown but probably has something to do with the availability of food or a successful breeding season.  Our region is on the edge of Snowy owl's normal winter range, so during an "irruptive" year, such as the last two winters, they can become almost common- and being owls, appreciated by both birders and non-birders alike.