Biodiversity: Invasive barred owls displacing endangered native northern spotted owls in Pacific Northwest forests

Barred owl. PHOTO COURTESY USGS.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plans experimental removal of barred owls

By Summit Voice

SUMMIT COUNTY — Invasive barred owls are increasingly taking up residence in northwestern forests at the expense of native — and endangered — norther spotted owls, according to a research project conducted jointly by the Oregon State University and the U.S. Geological Survey.

The three-year study shows that the barred owls are outcompeting spotted owls for critical resources such as space, habitat, and food, according to the study released last week by Oregon State University.

“Interactions between invasive and native species can be multifaceted and complex, with the stakes being even higher when the native species is already threatened with extinction,” said USGS Director Marcia McNutt. “Careful scientific observation and analysis can tease out the critical areas of conflict or competition, the first step in finding solutions.” (more…)

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