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Na m e : ___ Date: _
Directions: Read the passage. Then, answer the questions.Make mental images as you read. It will help you get
the full picture.Reading Comprehension • Saddleback Educational Publishing ©2002 3 Watson, Irvine, CA 92618•Phone (888)SDL-BACK•www.sdlback.com
The Snowy Owl
Among North American birds, the snowy owl ranks first in
size. It can reach 27 inches in length and have a
wingspan of 5 feet. The snowy owl is light for its size—
about four pounds. It is easily distinguished from other
large owls within its habitat by its predominately white
plumage. The adult has few natural enemies, but eggs
and juveniles are in danger from Arctic foxes and
husky dogs.
Owls depend on their keen sense of hearing and the
efficiency of their sight, which is designed to work well
in the dark. Unlike most other owls that primarily hunt
at night, the snowy owl is diurnal, making it well-
suited to survive in the far north where it can be
continuously light or dark around the clock. These owls
mainly feed on lemmings, voles, and rabbits but are known
to eat other birds and fish as well. The snowy owl can fly long
distances carrying an animal weighing far more than itself.- Where is the snowy owl’s habitat? ____
How can you tell?__________________________________________________________________- What color plumage do other owls of the region have?__
How can you tell? __________________________________________________________________- Does the snowy owl hunt during the day, at night, or both? _____
What word tells you? _______________________________________________________________- Is the snowy owl a carnivore or herbivore? ____
How can you tell? __________________________________________________________________- Could the snowy owl carry off a rabbit weighing five pounds? ___
How do you know? _________________________________________________________________