Wildlife

Wild Barn Owl Nest Box Provision

Barn owl populations benefit significantly from nest box provision in agricultural landscapes where natural tree cavities and building access have declined.

Key Facts

Barn owl numbers in the UK are estimated at 4,000-8,000 breeding pairs
Suitable nesting sites in old buildings and hollow trees have declined with modernisation
Properly designed and located nest boxes are adopted in 60-80% of cases within 2-3 years
Boxes should face away from prevailing weather and be 3-5 metres above ground
Rodenticide use near barn owl territories causes secondary poisoning and breeding failure

Welfare Considerations

Providing barn owl nest boxes directly increases breeding success and population welfare. They are a highly cost-effective conservation intervention.

What You Can Do

Install a barn owl nest box in a suitable agricultural or rural location
Avoid second-generation rodenticides near barn owl territories
Record barn owl sightings with the British Trust for Ornithology