Aggressive cutting of old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest reduced these stands into small forest units not suitable for spotted owl nesting. As a result, the northern spotted owl is tied to the last remaining large stands of ancient forest. Logged areas now allow larger, more aggressive barred owls the opportunity to invade the edges of the northern spotted owls' shrinking old-growth territory, further reducing suitable nesting sites for northern spotted owls. When threatened, barred owls raise one wing and hold the other close to their body. The spine-chilling shrieks, silent flight and nocturnal habits of some owls have led many people to believe that owls are magical or evil omens.
Some people even believe that owls are able to predict births and deaths.
In some cultures, owls are considered wise and are worshipped. A barred owl can be seen at the zoo's Raptor Center. Other birds that can be found at the Raptor Center include the bald eagle, gyrfalcon, Harris's hawk, turkey vulture and spectacled owl. The zoo's Eagle Release Program has rehabilitated and released back into the wild more than 80 eagles, plus other raptor species. Many raptor species are in danger.