This public dataset is a summary of the information contained in the Barred Owl Observations Database (BDOWDB, [ds8], secured). The BDOWDB provides point locations for barred owls, Strix hybrids, and unknown Strix. It is a secured layer because it includes references to sensitive spotted owl locations. This summary layer provides all of the PLSS Sections in which barred owls have been reported to CDFW and the first and last years that owls were reported in each section. Inquiries regarding this layer or the BDOWDB can be directed to the database manager.

Most of the barred owl data reported to CDFW was collected incidentally during spotted owl surveys conducted on private and government timberlands; therefore, it may not capture the full extent of the current barred owl range in California. Additional data sources include citizen science applications such as eBird and iNaturalist and only verifiable observations are used.

Barred owl presence has been attributed to northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) population declines and threaten California spotted owls (Strix occidentalis occidentalis). Additional information on barred owls in California and submitting data can be found on CDFW's Barred Owl Threat webpage: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Birds/Barred-Owl-Threat.