Mixed Oak Conifer Forest Habitat

Mixed conifer forests are found in the mountain ranges above 4,500 feet elevation. Mixed conifer forests range from dense forests of pine, cedar, and fir species to more open forests with oak trees and an understory of chaparral shrubs and pineland herbaceous species. The forest has multiple ‘layers’ of vegetation: the top layer is called the canopy, and is made up of the tallest pine trees. Below the canopy is a shorter tree layer, then a shrub layer, and finally a ground layer of grasses, ferns and other herbs. Characteristic plants include Coulter Pine, Jeffrey Pine, White Fir, Bigcone Douglas-fir, Incense Cedar, Black Oak, and Canyon Live Oak.

A noteworthy species that makes this habitat its home is the Bigcone Douglas-fir. The southern-most occurrence of this species is found in the Volcan Mountains. Mature stands of Bigcone Douglas-fir provide habitat for the California Spotted Owl, which is a candidate for endangered or threatened species listing.