This lichen can be found draped over trees and shrubs in the mid-canopy.  This species is not frequently found, but when it is its population tends to be abundant.  Its healthiest populations are found in old-growth forests. This lichen is an important food source for herbivorous insects, deer, elk, and various small mammals (Northern flying squirrel).  It is also an important nesting material for some species of birds (hummingbird, winter wren) and mammals (Northern flying squirrel, mice). Historically, this lichen also provided humans with food during times of starvation.