Enjoy watching owls in your backyard?
Believe it or not, many owl species live in North America. These wild birds can be hard to spot in the wild. Building an owl nesting box near your property may be the best way for you to see these incredible creatures close at hand.
Keep reading to learn some of the best five tips for building the perfect owl nesting box!
1. Location is Key
Make sure the box is placed at least ten feet off the ground and away from any large trees or other structures the owls could perch on. See that the box entrance faces away from prevailing winds.
Install a perch near the entrance of the box to give the owls a place to rest. Provide some cover for the box such as shrubs or evergreens. Ensure there is a clear flight path to the box.
2. Use the Right Materials
Some good materials to use for an owl nesting box include wood, metal, or plastic. You want to make sure the materials you use are durable and can withstand the elements. The best material to use is untreated cedar or plywood since it is safe for owls.
Fear not if you lack the tools to build your owl nesting boxes. There are pre-made boxes available that you can buy.
3. Get the Right Size
An owl nesting box should be big enough for the owl to comfortably nest in, but not too big that the owl feels exposed. The size of the box will also depend on the species of owl.
A good rule of thumb is that the box should be about one and a half times the owl’s body length. The box should also have a few inches of clearance on all sides so the owl can move around inside.
4. Attracting Owls
Put some soft material like leaves, wood shavings, or straw in the bottom of the box for the owls to build their nest. Make sure the sides and bottom of your box are made of rough materials like bark, so the owls can have a good grip when they’re inside.
Drill or cut some ventilation holes in the top or sides of the box to help the owls stay cool in the summer. Be sure to place the box away from human activity, as owls are shy birds.
5. Maintain and Monitor
It is vital to keep the box clean. Remove any old nesting material, feces, or debris that may have accumulated. This will help prevent the spread of disease. Check the box for any signs of damage and repair or replace it as needed.
Lastly, monitoring the box for any signs of occupancy is important. If you see that an owl is using the box, do not disturb it.
Put Up Your Very Own Owl Nesting Box
If you’re looking to help a family of owls, building a nesting box is a great way to start. Make sure the owl nesting box is the right size for the owl you’re hoping to attract, place it in a secluded spot, and keep it clean.
With a little effort, you can provide a safe place for owls to lay their eggs and raise their young. And remember, when it comes to owls, the more, the merrier!
Check out the rest of our blog posts for more informative articles.
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