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.
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Recent Spotted Owl sightings near you
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