Populations of Burrowing Owls have been vastly declining all over the US, but throughout the California coast especially. They have sustained significant habitat loss through sprawl development and the excessive use of pesticides and rodenticides is poisoning them and their food supply.
Burrowing Owls are classified as endangered or threatened in other parts of the US, Minnesota, Colorado and Florida. They are endangered in Canada and threatened in Mexico with special protections.
Burrowing Owls are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which the Trump Administration is now undermining.
Burrowing Owls are unique because they are the only owl that nests and roosts underground. They are exceptionally agile and have long legs designed for sprinting and running.
