4 Best Large Owl Boxes for Barns in 2026
Looking to provide a cozy, safe home for barn owls? The top four large owl boxes for barns in 2026 are fantastic choices! Each offers sturdy, weatherproof construction, perfect for brave little predators, and includes thoughtfully designed entry holes that keep bigger threats at bay. These boxes are easy to set up, durable, and tailored to local owl habits—plus, they’ll add a charming natural touch to your property. Keep going—it’s worth discovering which one suits your needs best!
Owl Houses for Outdoors with Nesting Boxes
Looking for an outdoor owl house that is both stylish and practical? These nests are what you need. Made from durable natural pine, they resist rot and weather. Waterproof paint helps keep your birds cozy all year. These boxes suit owls, squirrels, bluebirds, and hummingbirds. They bring many types of birds to your yard. Setup is simple and requires no tools. Each nest includes wood shavings for immediate comfort. The design keeps predators out but allows easy access for your birds. Giving nature a home has never been easier.
Best For: outdoor bird and owl lovers who want a strong, multi-use nesting shelter that makes their garden lively and supports local wildlife.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality, rot-resistant pine with waterproof coating.
- Fits many birds and small mammals, increasing biodiversity.
- Easy to assemble without tools and includes wood shavings for immediate use.
Cons:
- Needs regular cleaning to prevent pests and keep it clean.
- Entrance size may need adjustment for some birds or predators.
- Not insulated, so it may need extra protection in very cold weather.
JILVGS 2-Pack Outdoor Owl Houses with Shavings
Want an easy way to attract owls and backyard wildlife? The JILVGS 2-Pack Outdoor Owl Houses with Shavings make it simple. They are easy to assemble with clear instructions and all hardware included. The houses are sized for small and medium owls, squirrels, and birds. They look like tree cavities, which helps protect animals from predators. Made from durable pine and cedar, these houses are weather-resistant. They can handle all seasons, so you can enjoy wildlife year-round. Just hang them in your yard and watch the animals come.
Best for: outdoor lovers who want simple, sturdy, and natural-looking owl houses to invite wildlife into their yard.
Pros:
- Easy to put together with step-by-step instructions.
- Made from natural wood that looks like real tree cavities.
- Weatherproof materials keep the houses in good condition for all seasons.
Cons:
- Finding the right spot for hanging can help attract more animals.
- Only suitable for small and medium owls and birds.
- Shavings inside may need changing over time for cleaning.
Enjoy watching your yard fill with wildlife using these simple, durable owl houses.
MOONITY Cedar Owl House, Weatherproof Nesting Box for Screech, Kestrel & More
The MOONITY Cedar Owl House is a simple, reliable choice for bird lovers. It provides a comfortable, weatherproof home for small and medium-sized owls. Made from high-quality cedar, it resists moisture and insects naturally. The waterproof asphalt exterior protects the house from rain and snow, keeping the owls dry. The house is easy to assemble and maintain. It has good ventilation and drainage holes, making cleaning simple. Plus, it comes with a 60-day guarantee for added confidence. This box helps owls stay safe and cozy for many seasons.
Best For: Bird watchers and conservationists who want a durable nesting house for small and medium-sized owls like Screech, Boreal, and Saw-whet.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality cedar, resistant to moisture and insects
- Waterproof asphalt exterior for all-weather protection
- Easy to put together, with ventilation and drainage holes for cleaning
Cons:
- Not suitable for larger owls or birds needing bigger nests
- Basic design, no additional features like predator guards
- Needs outdoor placement and regular cleaning to stay helpful
Large Barn Owl House for Outdoors, Wooden Owl Nesting Box, Easy Assembly
This large barn owl house makes it easy to attract owls to your yard. It measures 10.6 inches wide, 8.7 inches deep, and 15.7 inches high. Its size is good for species like Eastern Screech and Great Horned Owls. The house is simple to set up with the included hardware and step-by-step instructions. It’s made from natural pine wood and coated with a safe, weather-resistant finish. The design includes a predator-proof entrance and a perch, giving owls a safe place to nest and rest. This house is a great way to bring nature closer to your home and watch these beautiful birds up close.
Ideal For: Bird lovers and conservationists who want to support owl populations outdoors.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble with clear instructions and hardware.
- Made from durable, natural pine and treated for outdoor use.
- Large enough for various owl species to nest, rest, and feed.
Cons:
- Needs proper placement for safety and easy access.
- Bigger size may not fit small gardens or tight spaces.
- Regular checks are needed to keep the house safe and inviting for owls.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Large Owl Boxes for Barns
Choosing the right owl box isn’t just about size—think about how tough and weatherproof it is, so your feathered friends stay cozy no matter what’s happening outside. You’ll also want one that’s predator-proof and easy to hang, so cleanup and maintenance don’t turn into a wild goose chase! When you pick the perfect owl box, you’re setting the stage for happy owls and a healthier barn ecosystem—talk about a win-win!
Size and Capacity
Imagine providing a cozy home that big owls, like the Great Horned Owl, want for nesting. The right size and capacity are important for attracting these birds. Choose a box that is at least 10-16 inches tall and wide. This size gives owls enough space to nest comfortably and rest. Bigger boxes help reduce stress and prevent overcrowding. This keeps the owls healthy and happy. Match the box size to the natural cavities that owls find in nature. A properly sized box makes owls feel at home. It encourages them to nest, raise their young, and visit again. Using the right size makes all the difference in welcoming healthy owl families.
Material Durability
Durability is important for keeping owl boxes in good condition. Use weather-resistant woods like cedar or treated pine. These woods resist rain, snow, and wind. Thick walls and strong joints help the box stay stable during storms. Eco-friendly finishes protect the wood without harming the owls. Proper care and quality materials make the box last longer. A durable owl box needs less repair and saves money. It provides a safe home for owls year after year.
Predator Protection
Predators can be clever and sneaky. To protect barn owls, choose a large owl box that resists their tricks. The size of the entrance hole matters most. It should be small enough to keep out bigger predators but big enough for owls to enter easily. Place the box 10 to 30 feet high. This height helps block ground predators like raccoons and foxes. Select a box made with strong materials. Look for features that prevent predators from entering, such as secure entry systems. The box’s location is also important. Put it where overhanging branches or nearby hiding spots can alert you to predators. Check the box regularly to find problems early. Keeping the box safe helps barn owls live safely and grow strong.
Weather Resistance
Choosing a weather-resistant owl box is important. It protects barn owls from rain, snow, and sun. Use strong materials like cedar or treated pine. These woods stand up to weather over time. Look for a waterproof roof on the box. Drainage holes help keep water out. Good ventilation prevents moisture buildup inside. A high-quality box resists cracking, rotting, and warping. This means the box lasts many years. A sealed entrance stops rain from getting inside. It keeps the nest dry and comfortable. Weatherproof owl boxes are essential for healthy, happy owls. They provide a safe home in all weather conditions.
Ease of Mounting
Having a large owl box that is easy to mount helps you set up a cozy home for barn owls. Choose boxes with pre-drilled holes and included mounting hardware. This saves time and reduces frustration during installation. Select a design that allows you to adjust angles or positions for a perfect fit. Keep in mind, heavy boxes may need additional support. Make sure the box works with common tools and hardware to make the process smoother. Some boxes include instructions or mounting templates, which make setup even easier. Using these tips, you’ll quickly see owls settle into their new home.
Ventilation & Drainage
Good ventilation and drainage are essential for a healthy barn owl box. Proper airflow controls temperature and humidity. It helps prevent mold growth and keeps the inside dry. Drainage holes at the bottom allow excess water to escape. This prevents water from pooling and causing rot or attracting pests. These features work together to create a safe, comfortable space for owls to lay eggs and raise their young. A well-made box can withstand rain, snow, and sun. This makes it last longer. Think of ventilation and drainage as important tools for keeping your owl box in good condition. They help protect the owls and promote a thriving barn owl community.
Local Wildlife Compatibility
When choosing an owl box for your barn, consider how well it fits the local owls. The box should be 9 to 13 inches in size to match the size of owls in your area. The entrance hole needs to be correct: it should be large enough for owls to enter but small enough to keep predators out. Pick a design that suits their nesting habits—whether they prefer cavity or platform nests. Use materials that handle your climate, whether it’s snowy or sunny. Add some camouflage and predator protection to keep the owls safe. By considering these factors, you create a cozy and safe home for local owls. This can help encourage them to stay and make your land a friendly place for wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Attract Barn Owls to My Large Owl Box?
To attract barn owls, install the box in a quiet, sheltered spot away from bright lights, keep it clean, and add a perch or nearby nesting materials. Minimize disturbances and monitor regularly for signs of activity.
What Is the Ideal Placement Height for Barn Owl Boxes?
You should place barn owl boxes 10 to 30 feet high, ensuring they’re mounted on sturdy, tree-like structures or buildings. This height offers safety from predators and provides a good vantage point for hunting.
How Often Should I Clean and Maintain the Owl Boxes?
You should clean and maintain your owl boxes at least once a year, preferably in late winter or early spring. Regular inspections help prevent parasites, guarantee safety, and keep the environment healthy for barn owls to thrive.
Are There Specific Predators That Threaten Barn Owls Near Boxes?
Yes, predators like raccoons, snakes, and large birds threaten barn owls near boxes. Keep the boxes elevated, secure, and regularly inspect to minimize risks, ensuring safer nesting environments for the owls in your barn area.
Can Owl Boxes Be Used for Multiple Owl Species Simultaneously?
Yes, you can use owl boxes for multiple species simultaneously if you provide different sizes and entrance hole diameters. This encourages various owls to nest peacefully without competition or conflict, supporting diverse biodiversity in your area.
Hello, I’m Emily Price, the founder of Birds Affection. As a passionate bird enthusiast and spiritual seeker, I’ve always been fascinated by the symbolic meanings and mystical connections between birds and our lives. On this website, I share my knowledge and insights on the spiritual significance of various bird species, exploring their roles as messengers, guides, and teachers. Through my writing, I aim to inspire and educate others on the profound wisdom and beauty that birds bring to our world. Join me on this journey as we delve into the enchanting realm of bird symbolism and discover the hidden meanings behind these magnificent creatures.