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Installing barn owl nest boxes

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 Barn owl

Interior barn owl nest box. Credit: John Lusby. Barn owl. Credit: Mike Brown.

Read the full newsletter here