UK Wildlife

Barn Owl Nest Box Schemes and Rodenticide

Barn owl populations have benefited from nest box installation schemes but face serious welfare risks from second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides, which bioaccumulate through the food chain.

Key Facts

Barn owl nest box schemes have provided thousands of additional nest sites across UK
Around 95% of barn owls tested in UK show evidence of rodenticide exposure
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides accumulate in barn owl tissues, affecting reproduction
Rural barn owl mortality from rodenticide poisoning reduces population recovery rates
Barn Owl Trust operates the most comprehensive UK barn owl monitoring programme

Welfare Considerations

Barn owl welfare from rodenticide is a serious ongoing concern. The widespread use of second-generation anticoagulants in farm buildings and rural settings is causing population-level impacts on barn owls through sub-lethal effects and direct mortality. Product stewardship and regulation are needed.

What You Can Do

Install barn owl nest boxes on farm buildings following Barn Owl Trust specifications
Avoid using second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides and use integrated pest management
Support Barn Owl Trust monitoring and advocacy for rodenticide regulation