Chapter 17. Information needs: Great gray owls

Abstract

Current understanding of great gray owl biology and ecology is based on studies of less than five populations. In an ideal world, a strong conservation strategy would require significant new information. However, current knowledge suggests that conservation of this forest owl should involve fewer conflicts than either the boreal or flammulated owl. The mix of forest habitats used by great gray owls fit patterns that occur in managed forest landscapes when the maintenance of mature and older forest is an integral part of management planning. Therefore, immediate threats to the persistence of this owl on a local and regional basis are not great. Long-term threats may be significant if loss of open-structured, mature and older forest continues as in the last century. Addressing the long-term threat to persistence should be the target of management and research planning.

Parent Publication

• Flammulated, boreal, and great gray owls in the United States: A technical conservation assessment

Citation

Hayward, Gregory D. 1994. Chapter 17. Information needs: Great gray owls. In: Hayward, G. D.; Verner, J., tech. editors. Flammulated, boreal, and great gray owls in the United States: A technical conservation assessment. Gen. Tech. Rep. RM-253. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. p. 207-211