Wildlife

UK Barn Owl Welfare and Winter Survival

Welfare of barn owls through challenging winter periods and management of nest boxes to support them.

Key Facts

Barn owls can starve during prolonged cold or snow when voles are inaccessible
UK barn owl population fluctuates significantly with winter severity
Nest boxes provide essential shelter as well as breeding sites for barn owls
Supplementary feeding during extreme weather events reduces starvation mortality
Young barn owls have the highest winter mortality rate and food provision is critical

Welfare Considerations

Individual barn owls face acute welfare risks from starvation during harsh winters, and nest box provision combined with habitat management provides essential support.

What You Can Do

Install barn owl nest boxes on suitable farm buildings with open access
Support the Barn Owl Trust nest box scheme and winter feeding programmes
Maintain rough grassland near nest boxes to support vole populations for owl prey