On February 12th, the Full Snow Moon will appear in the sky. Historically, this moon has been referred to as the Hungry Moon due to food shortages at this time of year and the Bear Moon because bear cubs are often born now. A recent scientific study found that some owls are more vocal under the brighter light of a full moon, and some are more effective hunters with the added lunar brightness. According to the article cited below, eagle owls are more vocal on full moon nights compared to darker, moonless nights and were observed calling at higher elevations on brighter nights. This behavior highlights their white throat patch while calling.
Penteriani, Vincenzo & Delgado, María & Campioni, Letizia & Lourenço, Rui. (2010). Moonlight Makes Owls More Chatty. PloS one. 5. e8696. 10.1371/journal.pone.0008696.
Our common local owl, the Great Horned Owl, is related to the Eurasian Eagle Owl and also features a white throat patch. So, pay close attention when the full moon rises; you might have the opportunity to hear the owls hoot!
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