Controversy Over Culling of Invasive Barred Owls to Protect Endangered California Spotted Owls

SOURCE www.dailymail.co.uk
The US Fish and Wildlife Service plans to cull 500,000 invasive barred owls to protect the endangered California spotted owl, causing controversy among wildlife groups.

Key Points

  • 500,000 barred owls are proposed to be culled
  • Barred owls are encroaching on spotted owl territory and competing for resources
  • Controversy over the effectiveness and ethics of culling such a large number of owls

Pros

  • Protecting the endangered California spotted owl population
  • Preventing competition and harm caused by the invasive barred owls

Cons

  • Controversy and outrage from wildlife groups
  • Concerns about disrupting the ecosystem and causing 'mistaken-identity kills'