The Screech Owl Nest Box is an excellent project for anyone interested in attracting these fascinating creatures to their yard. Building a home for Screech Owls provides them with a safe place to nest and raise their young, while also allowing bird lovers the opportunity to observe these beautiful creatures up close.
Building Your Screech Owl Nest Box
To build a Screech Owl Nest Box, you will need:
- 4 pieces of untreated lumber that are 1"x10"x8'
- 1 piece of plywood that is 3/4"x4’x4'
- 1-1/4" deck screws and wood glue
- Tools (saw, drill, screwdriver, clamps, tape measure)
The first step in building your Screech Owl Nest Box is to cut the lumber down to size. You will need two 26" pieces for the front and back, two 18" pieces for the sides, and one 17" piece for the roof. Next, cut the plywood down to size for the floor of the box.
Once you have cut the pieces to size, it’s time to assemble the box. First, attach the front and back pieces to the sides using wood glue and deck screws. Make sure the edges are flush and the corners are square. Next, attach the roof piece to the top of the box using wood glue and deck screws.
After you have assembled the box, it’s time to add the floor. Attach the plywood floor to the bottom of the box using wood glue and deck screws. Make sure the floor is flush with the sides and back of the box.
Placing Your Screech Owl Nest Box
Once you have built your Screech Owl Nest Box, it’s important to place it in the right location. Screech Owls prefer to nest in wooded areas, so choose a location near trees. The box should be mounted at a height of 10-30 feet off the ground, with the entrance hole facing away from prevailing winds.
When mounting the box, use a sturdy pole, post, or tree branch. Make sure the box is secure and level. It’s also a good idea to attach metal predator guards to the pole or post to prevent animals like raccoons or snakes from climbing up and eating the eggs or chicks.
Caring for Your Screech Owl Nest Box
Once you have placed your Screech Owl Nest Box, it’s important to monitor it to ensure it’s being used and to keep it clean. Screech Owls usually mate in February, so it’s a good idea to check the box in March or April to see if birds have moved in.
If the box is occupied, do not disturb the birds. However, it’s a good idea to check on the box periodically to make sure the entrance hole is clear of debris and to clean out any old nesting material after the breeding season is over. This will help prevent parasites and bacteria from building up in the box.
Overall, building a Screech Owl Nest Box is a fun and rewarding project for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. By providing a safe place for these beautiful creatures to nest and raise their young, you can help support healthy wildlife populations and contribute to the beauty of your local ecosystem.
