Installing barn owl nest boxes
In the latest Teagasc Environment Newsletter we find out what to look out for when installing owl nest boxes
When installing a barn owl nest box, you must adhere to the following:
- nest boxes must be located as on the ACRES application;
- maintain in the same position for five years;
- place nest boxes at least 3m above ground level;
- barn owl/kestrel nest boxes can be placed indoors or outdoors and therefore must be of suitable design informed by the location(s) selected;
- if rodenticides are used, you must implement an integrated pest management approach to rodent control on your farm – the use of rodenticides must be justified and be in accordance with the product label – maintain records regarding their use;
- while barn owl nest box(es) must not be located within 500m of a motorway or dual carriageway and must be below 300m in altitude (altitude above sea level), this does not apply to kestrel boxes;
- once in place, do not approach the nest box(es). It is an offence to cause disturbance to a breeding pair or at the nest site. Essential maintenance is permitted during the month of December only
Interior barn owl nest box. Credit: John Lusby. Barn owl. Credit: Mike Brown.