- Mature and old-growth coniferous forests, typically dominated by Douglas-fir, western hemlock, or Sitka spruce
- Dense canopy closure, providing shade and protection from predators
- Tall trees with large branches for nesting and roosting
- Multi-layered canopy structure, with a mix of tree ages and sizes
Understory:
- Dense understory vegetation, including shrubs, ferns, and mosses
- Provides cover for hunting and protection from predators
- Important for maintaining a cool and humid microclimate
Forest Structure:
- Complex forest structure, with a mix of standing dead trees (snags), fallen logs, and downed woody debris
- Snags provide nesting and roosting sites for spotted owls and other cavity-nesting birds
- Fallen logs and downed woody debris create habitat for prey species, such as small mammals and amphibians
Landscape Scale:
- Large contiguous forests, typically over 1,000 acres
- Connected habitats that allow spotted owls to move between nesting and foraging areas
- Proximity to water sources, such as streams or rivers
Spotted owls also require relatively undisturbed forests with minimal human activity. Logging, development, and other forms of habitat fragmentation can significantly impact spotted owl populations.