Owl nest boxes – an expert guide for adding one to your backyard

Q: I want to encourage extra owls into our out of doors area, and plan to purchase an owl nesting field to take action. Is there any recommendation I have to know earlier than I proceed?

A: Including a nesting field is among the finest methods to draw owls to your yard. Nevertheless, there are some things to contemplate earlier than you put money into one. These embody selecting the best one to your area, putting in it in an acceptable location, and understanding methods to preserve it. There are additionally some potential interlopers to look out for, and issues to keep away from.

Noticed-whet owls are small and native to North America (Picture credit score: Patrice Babeux / 500px / Getty Photographs)

Flip your yard right into a extra wildlife-friendly area with this skilled recommendation.

Nesting boxes can be fixed to trees (Image credit: Penny Britt / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)
Nesting bins may be fastened to timber (Picture credit score: Penny Britt / iStock / Getty Photographs Plus / Getty Photographs)

Selecting An Owl Nesting Field

‘It’s important to decide on the suitable owl nesting field tailor-made to the particular owl species you plan to draw,’ says wildlife skilled Roberto Benardout.

Ben Group of FootstepsInTheForest.com underlines this level: ‘Small owls clearly want small nesting bins, whereas bigger owls want extra spacious lodging. Very giant owls, resembling nice horned owls and eagle owls, typically favor nesting in open bins or flat platforms as an alternative of cavity-style nesting bins.’

You’ll have to analysis the native owl species in your area, Roberto says. ‘When you’re unsure, search steering out of your native wildlife group.’

Ben additionally recommends spending a while outdoors at evening listening to the owls in your space. ‘Totally different species have completely different calls, which you’ll be taught by listening to YouTube movies or by visiting bird-oriented web sites.

‘When you’ve recognized the species in your space, you may choose an acceptable field or platform,’ Ben continues. When you’re selecting a field, guarantee the dimensions of the doorway gap is appropriate, too.

Roberto additionally advises choosing supplies which can be waterproof and protected for owls. ‘Keep away from using poisonous substances, like paints or stains, contained in the field to make sure the owls’ well-being.’


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This text by Holly Crossley was first printed by Houses and Gardens on 28 October 2023. Lead Picture: (Picture credit score: Karl Ander Adami / iStock / Getty Photographs Plus / Getty Photographs).