Spotted Owl Infographic (IMAGE) Penn State Caption According to a new study, mixed-severity fires produce more benefits than costs to populations of Spotted Owls, a species that acts as an indicator of biological health to the old-growth forests where they live. Credit Penn State Usage Restrictions Credit must be published alongside images. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.