The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has released a final plan to cull barred owls in an effort to save the spotted owl, a threatened species that is being outcompeted by the barred owl. The plan involves killing up to 450,000 barred owls over 30 years in order to prevent the extinction of the spotted owl. The barred owl, native to the eastern U.S., has spread to the west coast due to European settlement and has had a significant impact on the spotted owl population, which has declined by 75% in the last two decades. The plan involves using professional crews to attract and shoot barred owls, with the goal of allowing spotted owl populations to rebound.
While the proposal has received criticism from animal welfare activists and Washington state officials, some support the plan as a necessary step to protect the spotted owl. Concerns have been raised about the cost and potential unintended consequences of the plan, with estimates suggesting it could cost $235 million over 30 years. The USFWS will need to seek a permit from itself to carry out the plan, as the barred owl is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Despite some opposition, the USFWS is moving forward with the plan, believing it is necessary to protect the spotted owl from extinction. The agency hopes that by managing the barred owl population, the spotted owl will have a better chance at survival in its native territory on the west coast.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
