The

Owl Box

The

Finer Details

Construction

• All boxes are pre-built, then deconstructed for posting to save postage and packaging costs
• This means that all the holes are pre-drilled, countersunk and therefore accurate
• Each piece is labelled and all writing remains internal once built… so you won’t see it
• All you need is a Phillips screwdriver. It really is child’s play…. in fact, children love building them!

Siting your owl box

• Site box on a suitable mature tree within woodland or a copse or alternatively on a mature tree in hedgerow
• The entrance should face East/NE/SE – away from the prevailing wind – this is not critical in dense woodland
• Tawny owl chicks will leave the box at approx. 3-½ weeks of age, to branch into the upper tree canopy, where they will continue their development. Therefore it is important that there are branches close to the box entrance to assist the young in climbing up into the canopy
• Ensure the front of the box is not obstructed and there is a clear flight path into the box
• The height of the top fixing point should ideally be between 3 – 4m (10 -13 ft)
  Fix the box at the top and bottom fixing points using the ratchet straps provided. If necessary, brace the box using additional fixings to ensure that it is firmly fixed
• Avoid siting the box above water-filled ditches, which may present a hazard to emerging chicks if they fall from the box
• Avoid installation within close proximity to major roads or motorways, to minimise risk of low flying owls becoming traffic casualties
• It is not recommended that tawny owl boxes are installed close to areas of regular family activity, as tawny adults can be very protective in the breeding season in defence of their young
• Tawny owls are territorial so only one pair will occupy a woodland.