The Spotted Owl is an old-growth forest specialist whose dependence on large-diameter trees and complex forest structure made it the symbol of the 1990s Pacific Northwest logging controversy. It is now facing an additional threat from the invasive Barred Owl, which has expanded into its range and is displacing it competitively. Three subspecies occur in the US, all of concern.
Best time to see a Spotted Owl
The best time to see a Spotted Owl is April–July, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,436 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Spotted Owl? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Spotted Owl sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Spotted Owl?
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