Western Screech-Owl
Megascops
kennicottii
Fairly common in low-elevation mixed woodlands throughout King County and on Bainbridge Island; no BBA records from Island County. Uncommon at low and moderate elevation in Kittitas County. Barely penetrates to higher elevations along riparian corridors on both sides of Cascade crest. Prefers forested habitats but also utilizes parks and residential areas with suitable vegetation within urbanized settings. May be declining, perhaps commensurate with Barred Owl increases. True distribution obscured by relative inadequacy of nocturnal survey efforts.
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