These small owls nest in abandoned ground squirrel burrows.  Discing collapses the burrows and kills the young.  These owls are listed as a state Species of Special Concern and are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.  If you suspect burrowing owls on your property, you must use another form of weed abatement such as mowing or weed eating.  If you request the County perform the abatement services, please notify the program staff or your City if burrowing owls are known to exist on your property. 

• Stanford University Burrowing Owl information