Wildlife Welfare

Wild Barn Owl Nest Box Provision

Nest box provision has been a major driver of barn owl population recovery by providing artificial nest sites where natural ones are lacking.

Key Facts

Barn owls need large hollow trees or farm buildings for nesting that are increasingly scarce
A correctly placed barn owl nest box in suitable habitat is quickly adopted
UK barn owl nest boxes have increased the breeding population significantly
Nest boxes should face away from prevailing rain and be positioned at appropriate height
Ringing by licensed ringers provides population data while minimising disturbance

Welfare Considerations

Barn owls denied suitable nest sites cannot breed, reducing individual reproductive welfare. Nest box provision directly addresses this welfare and conservation constraint by providing artificial nest sites in habitats where natural cavities are scarce. Each occupied nest box that produces successful fledglings represents improved welfare through reproductive success.

What You Can Do

Install a barn owl nest box in suitable rural habitat
Join the Barn Owl Trust nest box monitoring programme
Support organisations managing barn owl nest box networks