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We tested two methods of releasing endangered, captive-bred Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) in Saskatchewan, Canada. The first technique involved releasing pairs of captive-reared, adult owls. Twelve of 26 pairs remained together using this technique, while another six individuals paired with wild owls. Pairing/nesting success was poor when enclosures were left in place for only 3 d prior to release; success improved when enclosures remained for 5 d or until clutch initiation. At least 19% of released adults died during the breeding season, compared to only 3.7% for wild owls. At least five released adults failed to migrate. None of the captive-release adults returned to the study area in subsequent years, whereas 19% of banded wild owls returned during the same period. One of 62 offspring from released pairs returned to breed in a subsequent year; this recruitment rate was not different than that of …