US Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Controversial Plan to Cull Barred Owls

In a move aimed at protecting the threatened spotted owl, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has unveiled a controversial plan to cull the barred owl population. The agency's proposal has sparked a heated debate, drawing both support and opposition from various stakeholders.

The plan, outlined in a final environmental impact statement, involves a 30-year initiative to eliminate up to 450,000 barred owls. The agency believes that by reducing the competition from the larger and faster-reproducing barred owl, the spotted owl population will have a better chance of recovery. The proposed method involves professional crews using territorial calls to attract the barred owls before shooting them with shotguns. Public hunting of the barred owls would not be permitted under the plan.

Environmental Impact

The barred owl, originally common in the eastern U.S., has encroached on the native territory of the spotted owl on the west coast. This incursion has had a significant impact on the population of spotted owls, which has declined by approximately 75% over the past two decades. An experimental study funded by the USFWS found that the removal of barred owls led to a 10% increase in the survival rate of spotted owls, offering hope for the recovery of the threatened species.

Opposing Views

While the proposal has garnered support from entities such as the Oregon Department of Forestry, it has also faced strong opposition. Wildlife law director Jennifer Best of Friends of Animals has criticized the plan as "senseless and cruel," expressing the organization's intent to review the final decision for possible legal action. Additionally, Washington’s public lands commissioner has raised concerns about the potential costs and unintended consequences of the plan, labeling it an "extreme solution."

Financial Considerations

Questions have been raised about the financial implications of the proposed program. Estimates suggest that the plan could cost as much as $235,000,000 over the 30-year period, with some experts expressing skepticism about its feasibility. However, the actual costs remain uncertain, dependent on the participation of various agencies and land managers.

Regulatory Hurdles

Before the plan can be implemented, the USFWS must obtain a permit under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to begin the culling of barred owls. A formal record of decision is expected from the agency in the coming month, marking a critical milestone in the contentious battle to save the spotted owl.