A snowy owl usually stands out for its pristine white feathers, but one sighted in Huron County, Michigan, did something entirely unexpected. It showed up sporting bright orange and red plumage, a rare sight that fascinated birdwatchers and scientists.
Nicknamed “Rusty” or “Creamsicle,” this mystery bird has drawn curious crowds and sparked conversations about how a normally snow-white creature could end up looking so colorful.
A Rare Sight and Competing Theories
During the frosty Michigan winter, photographer Bill Diller captured images of the unusual owl perched in an open field. Onlookers described it as a breathtaking blend of orange and red that seemed entirely out of place.
According to Scott Weidensaul, co-founder of Project SNOWstorm, a likely culprit is airport de-icing fluid. “The most likely explanation is that it was de-icing fluid at an airport, since some formulations are that red-orange color. It’s certainly not natural,” he said.
Others have speculated about wildfires, imagining the owl might have brushed against fire retardant. Some have even wondered if the coloring resulted from paint or dye. Meanwhile, a few ornithologists proposed a genetic mutation brought on by environmental stress, though many experts say such mutations are exceptionally rare for snowy owls.
The Need for Discretion
Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources decided not to disclose the owl’s exact location. Since the bird appeared healthy, officials felt intervention wasn’t necessary.
Snowy owls (Bubo scandiacus) are classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, so drawing crowds could lead to undue stress. At over five pounds and with a wingspan often exceeding five feet, these owls need room to hunt and rest without excessive human interference.
Still & motion nature photographer Jon Groves captured this snowy owl skimming along the snow covered ground in 2016 [Source, IG: https://t.co/iTYdQbGVyC] [This and other photo by the author, here: https://t.co/5KfFfmZKmA] pic.twitter.com/jRJviHXjyF
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) November 26, 2020
Even so, sightings like this generate buzz among birdwatchers eager to snap photos or check a special bird off their life list. “The reddish-orange color is just stunning; it’s something you rarely see,” said one local birdwatcher who drove hours hoping to catch a glimpse. The unusual coloring may fade as the owl molts, but for now, it remains an unforgettable visitor.
Fans of the “Creamsicle Owl” have taken to social media with theories, jokes, and earnest questions. While there’s clearly no single consensus, many experts point back to de-icing fluid as the simplest and most likely explanation. Whatever caused the shift, it’s an important reminder that unexpected encounters can reveal just how adaptable and resilient wildlife can be.
For now, Michigan’s famous orange snowy owl continues to patrol the wintery fields it calls home, blissfully unaware of its celebrity status. Whether it’s a one-time mishap or something more complex, the story behind its vivid feathers underscores the delicate balance between curious observers and the wild creatures we want to protect.
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