Owls are intriguing, majestic birds with sleek, aerodynamic bodies, eager hearing, sharp talons and powerful, hooked bills. These birds of prey are nocturnal hunters who dine on mice, shrews, voles and other vermin that cause problems for homeowners. Bigger owls, such as great horned owls, eat skunks, rats and other larger mammals. Homeowners with owl-friendly habitats may take action to encourage these remarkable birds.

Owl-Friendly Habitats

Owls are attracted to environments that have a healthy population of mice, mice, voles and other prey. Owl-friendly habitats include quiet, secluded areas with grassy areas, brush piles, fence rows or thickets that serve as habitat for small animals. Mow lawn and other grassy areas seldom, as a perfectly groomed landscape doesn’t offer good hunting territory for owls. A landscape with either deciduous or evergreen trees is attractive to owls, as the birds need secure, shady areas to create nests and to rest during the day.

Perches

Owls require a safe place to perch. Owls use perches as a resting place while they’re searching, as the perch allows them to rest and help you save energy while watching for prey. Dead trees and old snags are great perches. If no organic perches are found, nail a crossboard to a fence pole or pole. Provide two crossboards in windy areas, as owls land on the perch from the prevailing wind. If possible, supply a perch every 200 feet.

Nest Boxes

Another box is a replacement for a natural nest and gives a secure retreat for owls. Many owls, such as great horned owls and display owls, typically nest in trees on the margins of grassy or woodland areas. Others, like barn owls, frequently nest in old barns with permanent exterior accessibility. It’s possible to copy these conditions by building a watertight nest box and putting it in a dry, protected area like a barn or on a tree with a cover of dense foliage. Locate the box in least 15 to 20 feet from the floor and face the opening towards the south to provide warmth during spring. Patience is required, as birds might not populate the nest box for at least 2 decades. Check the box frequently and eliminate starlings and other unwanted birds that frequently take over the boxes.

Tips

Poison baits are highly toxic and might kill owls that dine on poisoned rodents and other vermin. If you’ve got a rodent problem, use traps or alternative non-toxic way of control. Keep in mind that rodents will attract owls, and in turn, the owls help control the rodent population. A family of owls can eliminate tens of thousands of rodents each year. People that are unaccustomed to owls and their customs could be amazed by the big pellets found under nesting sites. The pellets, which can be undigested clumps of matter like bone, fur and feathers, are normal as owls swallow prey and then regurgitate the indigestible pieces. Cutting into the pellets is a great way to teach kids about the habits of owls.

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