Wild File

How to Make a Barn Owl Box

Recent years have seen the serious decline of the barn owl in Ireland. One of the reasons is lack of suitable nesting sites. This is where you can help the barn owl - by putting up an artificial nest box.

Barn owl nest boxes have proved very successful in Ireland and other parts of the world. The location of these boxes should be in a quiet barn, old castle or large tree. It is important that the location is not disturbed - particularly during the breeding season. It can take some time before the box is used for breeding. However some owls may use the box for roosting. It will be necessary to check the nest box in the autumn in case other birds such as jackdaws have taken it over.

Building a Barn Owl Nest Box
Tea chests and packing cases can make ideal nest boxes when put indoors, where they will not need to be waterproofed. For outdoor use the box need to be sturdy and waterproof. It can be any size but the hole entrance should be 150mm wide by 200mm high. The box needs to be at least 750mm deep and needs to be at least 450mm wide and the same in height.

If using a Tea Chest, remember to remove any tin foil and sharp nails. When constructing the box, help will be needed from an adult, especially when location it in a barn or tree. Advice should always be sought from a local Wildlife Ranger or Conservation Group member.

Back to Wild File

Back to Schools