TAWNY OWL NESTING BOXES
The Tawny Owl is a woodland bird and as one of the most
adaptable of owl species, can be found even in urban and
garden environs. Tawny Owls are content to nest in smaller
cavities than Barn Owls and the designs for suitable
nest-boxes reflect this.
The upright kind can be fixed to tree trunks or larger
branches and measure up to 36” (90cms) in length; chimney
nestboxes - which replicate the hollow ends of large broken
branches - can be longer, up to 60” (150cms) in length and
can be strapped to the underside of sloping branches with
an angle of c. 45 degrees. Both types of box need an
entrance of not less than 10” (25cms) square which should
face away from prevailing wind and rain; should have
several drainage holes at their base and need to be sited
at least 12 feet (3.7m) from ground level.
Because, unlike Barn Owls, Tawny Owl chicks start to
explore their surroundings well before fledging, the box
needs to have nearby branches they can climb over. As a
possible garden dweller, it should be appreciated that
Tawny Owls are sensitive to disturbance when on eggs, and
can also be aggressive, dangerous even, if they or their
young are approached. So it is best to leave them well
alone while they are nesting and you need to consider the
likely proximity of young children in the garden before
putting up the box.
Further reading about the building & siting of nestboxes can be found in a comprehensive booklet, Boxes Baskets & Platforms, available price £8.99 + P&P from The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary on 01449 711425For detailed plans to build your own Tawny Owl box or a price list for ready-made boxes please call us on 01449 711425