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Abstract
A two-year ecological study (1995 through 1996) was conducted on the Barred Owl (Strix varia) in the Foothills Model Forest (FMF) located in west-central Alberta. The Barred Owl was chosen for study because it is considered an indicator of old growth forest. Little information exists on the Barred Owl in Alberta. The purpose of this study was to investigate Barred Owl nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat use. Broadcast surveys were used to determine the presence and relative abundance of nocturnal owls. Data was collected in March, April, and May. Three hundred calls from six species of owls were recorded at 893 stops for a call rate of 0.34 calls per stop. Six pairs of owls were investigated for nesting. The Barred Owl can serve as a good indicator of old growth forests, particularly those associated with riparian areas. A draft habitat model, based on literature, was modified to include the importance of balsam poplar trees for nesting and the negative affects of openings associated with Great Horned Owl predation (Bubo virginianus) and anthropogenic disturbance. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
