MILWAUKEE (SPECTRUM NEWS) -- Bird watchers have reported sightings of snowy owls in both northern and southern Wisconsin this season.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, at least 20 owls have been seen in 12 different counties, including Bayfield, Door, Crawford and Milwaukee counties. Most all of the birds have been adults. 

Snowy owls nest in the Arctic Circle, but are known to fly south during the winter season to Canada and the northern United States. In 2018, there were 30 owl sightings by this time. This season, snowy owls have also been spotted in Minnesota, Michigan and southern Ontario.

The birds typically seek out habitats in open aera, and will roost on just about anything including fenceposts, telephone poles, silos and other buildings. Unlike other owl species, snowy owls are known for being diurnal, or active during the day. Birdwatchers should never approach a snowy owl too closely or attempt to feed one. To learn more about their habits how to spot a snowy owl, click here.