Wildlife

Barn Owl Conservation and Nest Box Provision

Barn owls have declined significantly across the UK and benefit dramatically from nest box installation on farms and in suitable rural buildings.

Key Facts

Barn owl populations declined by over 70% in the 20th century due to habitat and prey loss
They need open grassland for hunting and appropriate roosting and nesting sites
A pair of barn owls can consume 1,000-2,000 small mammals per year
Nest box schemes have contributed significantly to population stabilisation
Grass bank and field margin management maintains the vole populations they depend on

Welfare Considerations

Barn owl welfare is closely linked to prey availability and appropriate nesting sites. Barn owls in areas with insufficient prey face starvation particularly during harsh winters when frozen ground prevents hunting. Nest box provision removes a key limiting factor for population recovery. Prey base management through grass margin maintenance supports the individual welfare of breeding owls that can otherwise fail to find sufficient food for themselves and their young.

What You Can Do

Install a barn owl nest box on suitable farm buildings or trees
Maintain rough grassland and field margins supporting vole populations
Register your nest box with the Barn Owl Trust
Avoid rodenticide use in areas supporting barn owls
Support agri-environment schemes funding habitat management for barn owls