Ecology and Conservation of the Cactus Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl in Arizona

摘要

This report is the result of a cooperative effort by the Rocky Mountain ResearchStation and the USDA Forest Service Region 3, with participation by the Arizona Gam and Fish Department and the Bureau of Land Management. It assesses the state of knowledge related to the conservation status of the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl in Arizona. The population decline of this owl has been attributed to the loss of riparian areas before and after the turn of the 20th century. Currently, the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl is chiefly found in southern Arizona in zeroriparian vegetation and well-structured upland desertscrub. The primary threat to the remaining pygmy-owl population appears to be continued habitat loss due to residential development. Important information gaps exist and prevent a full understanding of the current population status of the owl and its conservation needs.