The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is asking for data and public comment regarding a petition to list the western burrowing owl under the California Endangered Species Act.
The species, once found throughout the state, is currently facing habitat loss partially due to changes in agricultural practices and pesticide poisoning and contamination, CDFW said. Populations of the burrowing owl are now primarily found in the Imperial and Central valleys.
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On March 5, several groups submitted a petition to the California Fish and Game Commission to get the western burrowing owl on the threatened or endangered species list. On Oct. 25, the commission decided to list the species and now must conduct a status review to decide whether the western burrowing owl is endangered or threatened.
The public can submit information regarding the owl’s ecology, genetics, threats to survival and other data to CDFW by Feb.15. Following an evaluation of the submitted comment, CDFW will publish a report recommending or disapproving the CESA designation.
