As I'm sure everyone knows the Spotted Owl is not well liked in Aberdeen, WA
(my new home).

In talking to the people here I find that most of them believe the Owl can
thrive in 2nd or 3rd growth forests. But everything I read from the pro-owl
side says they cannot. But I also seem to be seeing a lack of research done
on the issue.

Does anyone know of any real research that they indeed need Old Growth
Forests to survive? And any information about the claims of Simpson Timber
that they banded 600+ Owls in 2nd growth forests and stated they had the
highest reproductive rates in 35-50 year old redwood stands (some more
information can be found here
http://cosweb.siskiyous.edu/class/geog1a/fall1997/owl.htm)

Thanks

Bruce W Fischer Jr.
Aberdeen, WA
stump at techline.com