The spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) is a species of true owl. It is a resident species of old-growth forests in western North America, where it nests in tree hollows, old bird of prey nests, or rock crevices. Nests can be between 12 and 60 metres (39 and 197 ft) high and usually contain two eggs (though some contain as many as four).

In the 1990s the Spotted Owl was catapulted into the spotlight over logging debates in the Pacific Northwest. This large, brown-eyed owl lives in mature forests of the West, from the giant old growth of British Columbia and Washington, to California's oak woodlands and the steep canyons of the Southwest. At night it silently hunts small mammals such as woodrats and flying …

Spotted Owl. Strix occidentalis. At a Glance Range & Identification Behavior Conservation Back to Top. At a Glance. Because it requires old-growth forest, this owl has been at the center of fierce controversy between conservationists and the logging industry in the Pacific Northwest. The owl itself seems anything but fierce: it has a gentle ...

The other major threat to spotted owls is the barred owl. Northern spotted owl populations are in serious decline due to competition from the invasive and non-native barred owl, along with past and ongoing habitat loss. California spotted owls face a similar risk from barred owl competition as barred owl populations continue to expand southward.

The Spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) is a species of true owl.It is a resident species of old-growth forests in western North America.Unfortunately, these mysterious birds are under pressure from habitat destruction throughout their range and are currently classified as …

Mar 2, 2023 · The Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis) is a medium-sized, round-headed, dark brown owl decorated with white spots. This uncommon owl species can be seen in old growth forest and mature forest habitats from southwestern British Columbia to California. It also lives in montane forest habitats at scattered locations from Utah and Colorado to central ...

The other two are the Mexican spotted owl and the California spotted owl. Each of these owls is brown with white spots, but the northern spotted owl is the darkest brown with the smallest spots and has darker facial disks (the feathers surrounding the eyes). Northern spotted owls are about 1.5 feet (0.4 meters) in length with a wingspan up to ...

Medium-sized owl typically found in mountainous regions with mixed conifers and oaks. Overall brown with bold white spots on belly and back. Black eyes, unlike most other owls; main confusion species is Barred Owl. Spotted is well-named, with much more obvious spots on chest and belly than Barred Owl, and lacks distinct vertical stripes. Also note voice: one hoot, followed by a …

The Mexican spotted owl is larger than the northern spotted owl, with a wingspan of about 50 inches and a weight of about 2 pounds. California spotted owl is the largest of the three, with a wingspan of about 54 inches and a weight of about 2.5 pounds. The Mexican spotted owl is the most endangered of the three subspecies.

Apr 19, 2025 · However, despite their blood relation, Barred Owls regularly feed on Spotted Owls when food is scarce, their larger size helping them. Unfortunately, Spotted Owls are endangered in California due to habitat loss and predators. There are some populations in the northern and central regions, but they’re steadily declining. 3. Barn Owl