Sadly protection of their remaining habitat may not insure the survival of the Northern Spotted Owl in BC or in Washington and Oregon for that matter.

The more agressive Barred Owl has migrated eastward and is threatening what remains of the Spotted Owl population. The Barred Owl eats Spotted Owls, out competes them for food in their traditional habitat and mates with them as well. The hybrids are also not particularly prolific.

Even saving current habitat may not be enough, without declaring open season on the eastern Barred Owl as well. The Barred Owl is also causing problems for our little Northern Saw-whet Owl too, here on Vancouver Island.