Genus: Strix occidentalis
Nicknames: Arizona Spotted Owl, Canyon Owl, Wood Owl.
Size: This species can weigh anywhere between 21 to 23 ounces, hold a wing span of 40 – 50 inches and stand 16.5 – 19 inches tall.
Appearance: The Spotted Owl is a dark woodland owl that’s often recognized for their round head and brown eyes. The majority of its body is cover with brown plumage, except for its breast and belly, which are speckled with white spots. Their coloring serves as a camouflage tool against tree bark to catch prey. Spotted Owls love to mingle with humans and are often hesitant to fly, making them one of the most docile and friendly owls.
Habitat: The spotted owl resides in aged forests of at least 200 years in order to hide under the shade of tall and wide trees. Under the canopy, these owls are able to protect their nests and perch on high altitudes to find prey. Nests are built in the cavities of trees to avoid sunshine and serve as protection from predators. Spotted owls are usually found in a mixture of forests; including douglas fir, redwood, pine-oak, western red cedar and ponderosa pine trees.
Diet: Spotted owls follow a diet similar to other owls. They prefer wood rats, hares, rabbits, mice and moles. Uncharacteristically, they are able to hunt for flying squirrels, as the two share similar habitats. The larger the caught prey, the greater the chance spotted owls will breed with one another. These owls consume their prey whole; taking in the bones, fur and teeth of other animals.
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