The Boreal Owl is widespread in forested regions across Canada. It is a year-round resident but may exhibit nomadic movements in search of prey. Christmas Bird Count results for a portion of the species' range indicate a large population increase in Canada relative to 1970, but these results are insufficient to establish the national population's status over the long-term. This species is therefore considered to be data deficient. The Boreal Owl may be susceptible to loss of mature forest habitat. This species has been identified as a priority for conservation and/or stewardship in one or more Bird Conservation Region Strategies in Canada.
The lack of reliable population data on Boreal Owls makes it difficult to determine causes of population change and to make appropriate management decisions. Boreal Owls prefer mature forests with abundant snags and are therefore expected to be susceptible to habitat changes from forestry operations (Hayward and Hayward 1993). Timber harvest also influences the abundance of small-mammal prey and can reduce availability of suitable roosting habitat. Because succession can be quite lengthy in the boreal forest, clear-cut sites may not be useful as roosting/foraging sites for a century or more (Hayward and Hayward 1993). Increasing wildfire activity in the boreal forest may also be a concern for the Boreal Owl. Birds found breeding in early successional habitat after a burn had lower nestling survival (Anderson 2017).
Environment and Climate Change Canada and partners have developed Bird Conservation Region Strategies in each of Canada’s Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs). In these strategies, selected species are identified as priorities for one or more of the following reasons:
Select any of the sub-regions below to view the BCR strategy for additional details.
