Remembering David Johnson and the burrowing owls he loved
Summary
Chris Morgan honors the late David Johnson, founder of the Global Owl Project, by revisiting their work with burrowing owls at the Umatilla Chemical Weapons Depot in Oregon. The episode details how Johnson’s artificial burrow system rescued the species from extinction after badger removal destroyed their natural nesting sites. It also reveals a surprising migration pattern where male owls winter in Washington while females travel to California, and highlights the future goal of reintroducing badgers to restore the ecosystem.
Topics discussed
Tribute to David Johnson and the Global Owl Project
David's childhood encounter with an Eastern Screech Owl
Introduction to Burrowing Owls and the rescue mission
Tour of the Umatilla Chemical Weapons Depot
The domino effect: Badgers, Pronghorns, and Owl decline
Inside the 'Igloos' and the artificial burrow system
Observing a male Burrowing Owl and his territory
Biparental care: Hunting, nesting, and food caching
Counting chicks using the plunger method and health checks
Banding owls and the mystery of their winter migration
Trapping males using audio lures and one-way traps
Geolocation data reveals distinct male and female migrations
Future conservation: Reintroducing badgers to the habitat
David's philosophy on legacy and conservation
Closing credits and support for The Wild podcast
Promotion for Home Range live event in Seattle
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