Wildlife

UK Tawny Owl Conservation and Urban Woodland

Conservation of tawny owls in UK woodland and urban parks and their welfare in human-modified habitats.

Key Facts

Tawny owls are the UK's most common owl and highly adaptable to urban habitats
Urban tawny owls use parks, cemeteries, and large gardens with mature trees
Nest boxes significantly increase breeding density in suitable urban woodland
Young tawny owls leave the nest before fully fledged and are often found on the ground
Road traffic accidents are a significant mortality cause for tawny owls

Welfare Considerations

Individual tawny owls face welfare risks from road traffic, human disturbance, and loss of nesting trees, with urban woodland management and nest box provision supporting their welfare.

What You Can Do

Install tawny owl nest boxes in suitable woodland or large gardens
Do not disturb young owls found on the ground as parents will continue to feed them
Support urban woodland conservation in parks and green spaces