Barred Owls and Wintery Mix

Bad news first: our Barred Owl cousins are getting shot by the dozens. And if a new program goes according to plan, more than 3,500 can be legally killed. It's all an effort to make room for the Spotted Owl, which is losing habitat to the bigger, more aggressive species. Fascinating story. Go read, then we'll discuss. I'll wait.

I really want to know what you think. Is previous human disruption enough justification for hunting wild creatures now? Or should biologists spend resources on other initiatives, such as restoring habitat or breeding programs?

And to cheer ya'll up, here's a playlist! Perfect for the chilling wind and spitting snow we've had in Missouri lately. There's seriously not a track I don't love.

If you aren't reading The Fox is Black, then what are you reading?