In Northern California’s forests, biologists are implementing a controversial strategy to help the northern spotted owl, a federally threatened species. The spotted owl’s population has been steadily declining, primarily due to habitat loss and competition from the barred owl, a more aggressive species that migrated west from the East Coast and Canada.
Barred owls have proven highly adaptable, outcompeting spotted owls for food and nesting sites in old-growth forests. As their numbers grow, spotted owls are being displaced. Currently, fewer than 2,000 pairs remain on federal lands.
To address this, a University of Wisconsin study has initiated the removal of barred owls from key habitats. Over the past four years, more than 1,000 barred owls have been lethally removed in Northern California. Biologists involved acknowledge the difficulty of the work but believe it is necessary to stabilize spotted owl populations.
The program has drawn criticism from animal welfare groups, who question its ethics and effectiveness. However, researchers argue that intervention is critical to prevent the spotted owl’s extinction.
While efforts to protect spotted owls continue, challenges remain, including the barred owl’s ongoing expansion and the broader loss of old-growth forests.
Photo from CDFW- Northern Spotted Owls in California
