3 Best Owl Boxes for Large Birds That Will Safely Shelter Owls
For secure sheltering of large owls like Great Horned or Barn Owls, choose boxes around 14x10x23 inches with 5-6 inch entry holes, mimicking natural tree cavities. Durable cedar or treated wood with waterproof coatings withstands weather and pests, while thoughtful ventilation and drainage prevent moisture buildup. Placement at 12-20 feet high, facing away from harsh sun, combined with predator guards, guarantees safety and longevity. Stick around, and you’ll discover how to pick the perfect owl home for your feathered friends.
Large Barn Owl House, Wooden Bird Nesting Box for Outside
If you want to attract large owls like Eastern Screech or Great Horned Owls to your backyard, the Large Barn Owl House from ONKO is a good choice. Its size is 10.6 x 8.7 x 15 inches, providing plenty of space for roosting, nesting, and feeding. The shape looks like natural tree cavities, helping owls feel at home. It is made from weatherproof pine wood and has a predator-resistant entrance. The house is easy to assemble and can be mounted at heights between 12 and 20 feet. It offers a safe and natural habitat for owls and is suitable for outdoor wildlife lovers.
Best For: outdoor bird and wildlife lovers who want to attract large owls such as Eastern Screech and Great Horned Owls to their yard.
Pros:
- Offers a spacious and natural-looking nesting space for multiple owl species.
- Made from durable, weatherproof pine wood with predator-resistant features.
- Simple to assemble and mount at the right height for owl safety and attraction.
Cons:
- May be too small for larger owl species like barn owls.
- Some features advertised, like side latches, may be missing. Instead, it has pre-drilled holes for securing.
- Slightly smaller than other options, which could limit larger owl visits.
Large Barn Owl House with Ventilation and Moisture Protection
The Large Barn Owl House has a simple, effective ventilation system. It features a bottom board with cut-off corners that create gaps. These gaps allow fresh air to flow inside. Good airflow helps prevent moisture from building up. This protection keeps the nesting area safe for owls.
The house is built from thick, durable planks. These make it strong and able to resist weather. Its size is 8.26 x 8.26 x 14.9 inches. This provides enough space for small birds and owls to nest comfortably. It is easy to install using two large screws. You can mount it at heights from 10 to 20 feet. This makes it a good choice for outdoor gardens or yards.
This owl house is ideal for wildlife lovers and gardeners. It offers a safe, well-ventilated home for small birds and owls. Its design helps keep the nest dry and healthy. The house is built for outdoor use and lasting weather.
Pros:
- Ventilation system with gaps prevents moisture buildup.
- Made from thick, strong wood for durability.
- Easy to install on outdoor walls or trees.
Cons:
- Suitable for small birds under 11 inches.
- May be difficult to mount at higher heights.
- Needs occasional cleaning forBest performance.
ONKO Large Great Horned Owl House, Outside Wooden Nest Box, 14x10x23 Circular Opening Bird House, Suitable for Wildlife, Assembly Required
The ONKO Large Great Horned Owl House is a great choice for attracting large owls to your yard. It measures 14x10x23 inches, offering a spacious inside area of about 13.78L x 10.24W x 22.83H inches. This space is ideal for birds like Great Horned, Barn, or Screech Owls. The house is made from waterproof wood, which keeps weather out and protects your visitors from rain and snow. It is easy to put together with the included hardware and instructions. You can mount it securely at about 15 feet high. Ventilation and drainage holes help keep the interior dry and comfortable. This house offers a safe, cozy space for owls without needing indoor plumbing.
Best For: outdoor wildlife lovers who want a sturdy, roomy home for large owls like Great Horned, Barn, or Screech Owls.
Pros:
- Waterproof wood makes it durable and weatherproof.
- Large inside space provides comfort for big owls.
- Simple to assemble with tools and instructions included, making installation quick.
Cons:
- Might be small for the largest owls like the Great Horned Owl.
- Some users received the house missing hardware parts.
- Mounting instructions may not cover all environments clearly.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Owl Boxes for Large Birds
When choosing owl boxes for large birds, you need to take into account important factors like size—ideally around 14x10x23 inches—to ensure plenty of space without risking instability. Material durability matters too; heavy-duty wood or weather-resistant plastics can withstand the elements better than flimsy options. Don’t overlook features like proper ventilation and predator resistance; these details can make the difference between a safe nesting site and a risky gamble.
Size and Dimensions
Choosing the right size for owl boxes is important to support large birds like Great Horned Owls. A good box size is about 14 inches wide, 10 inches deep, and 23 inches tall. This size gives the owls enough space to move and raise their young without making the box too big for predators to access. The inside of the box should have at least 13 inches of height so the owls can nest comfortably. The entrance hole should be 5 to 6 inches across to make it easy for the owls to enter and exit while keeping predators out. Good airflow and moisture control are important. Pick a box with enough space for ventilation. Place the box 12 to 20 feet above the ground. This height keeps the owls safe from animals on the ground and gives them a good view of their surroundings.
Material Durability
Choosing the right materials is important when building owl boxes for large birds. Use natural woods like cedar or weather-resistant pine. These woods resist rot, warping, and insect damage. Reinforce the box with thick walls and a weatherproof coating. This protects against rain, snow, and sunlight. Use sealed joints and hardware that resist corrosion. These features help keep water out and the inside dry. Regularly check the materials for signs of wear. Look for cracks or damage early. Properly chosen and maintained materials ensure the owl box stays strong. This helps keep owls safe and comfortable for many years.
Ventilation Systems
Proper ventilation is essential for owl boxes, especially for large bird species. It helps keep the inside temperature stable and reduces moisture build-up. Good ventilation features, like holes or gaps placed in the right spots, allow air to flow freely. These openings should keep predators out while promoting airflow. Proper airflow reduces the chances of mold and rot inside the box, creating a healthier space for the owls. It also prevents high humidity, which can damage the wood over time. The best ventilation systems balance airflow with insulation. They keep the box warm enough in winter and cool enough in summer. When choosing an owl box, pay attention to the ventilation features. They are key to making a safe, long-lasting home for owls.
Predator Resistance
Making sure your owl box resists predators is just as important as giving owls a cozy space. Use reinforced entrance holes and strong materials to stop raccoons and snakes from getting inside. Smaller, circular holes allow owls to enter but keep bigger predators out. Place the box 12 to 20 feet above the ground to reduce access for ground predators like foxes. Add predator guards, such as metal baffles or perches, to block entry points. Use weatherproof materials with secure lids and vents to prevent predators from tampering with the inside. Your owl box should be tough and secure, making it safe for owls to nest.
Ease of Installation
Ease of Installation
Choose owl boxes that are easy to install. Look for boxes with clear assembly instructions and all needed hardware. Pre-drilled holes or mounting brackets make attaching the box to trees, poles, or structures simple. Use lightweight materials like cedar or resin to move and position the box comfortably. Place the box 10 to 20 feet high for safety and convenience. Include safety latches or easy-access panels for cleaning. These features make setting up and maintaining the owl box quick and simple.
Weather Resistance
Choosing a weather-resistant owl box is important for your birds to stay safe all year. Pick boxes made from strong, rot-resistant wood like cedar or treated lumber. These materials can handle rain, snow, and sun. Make sure the box has vents or gaps to allow air flow. Good ventilation helps keep moisture out, which stops mold and bad smells. Include drainage holes at the bottom to let water escape. These holes prevent water from collecting inside the box. Use heavy walls that resist cracking and warping. This keeps the box sturdy during temperature changes. Protect the nests from weather and predators with entry covers. A weatherproof owl box keeps your birds safe and healthy year-round.
Habitat Compatibility
Matching your owl box’s size and entry hole to the target species is important. Big owls like Great Horned Owls need larger boxes with round openings about 5 to 6 inches across. Barn owls prefer smaller boxes, about 15 inches tall with a 3 to 4-inch entry. Choose a box made from natural, weatherproof materials like untreated pine. This helps the box blend into the environment and feels familiar to the owls. Make sure the inside of the box is roomy enough for nesting. Include good ventilation for airflow. Place the box between 12 and 20 feet high on a tree or pole. Face the box away from direct sunlight and strong winds. Use a design that allows easy cleaning. This keeps the habitat safe and healthy for the owls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Materials Are Safest for Large Owl Boxes?
You should choose natural, untreated wood like cedar or pine, as they’re safe and durable. Avoid pressure-treated or painted materials, and make sure there are no harmful chemicals or finishes that could harm the owls.
How Often Should Large Owl Boxes Be Cleaned?
You should clean large owl boxes at least once or twice a year, preferably after breeding season, to remove debris and parasites, ensuring a healthy environment that encourages safe nesting and minimizes health risks for your majestic owls.
Can Owl Boxes Be Heated for Winter Protection?
Yes, you can heat owl boxes for winter protection, but make certain you use safe, bird-friendly heating methods like heated pads or lamps designed for wildlife. Always monitor temperature to prevent overheating and keep your owls safe and comfortable.
What Is the Ideal Height for Mounting Large Owl Boxes?
You should mount large owl boxes approximately 10 to 20 feet above the ground. This height offers safety from predators, provides good visibility, and mimics their natural nesting environments, encouraging them to settle comfortably and safely.
Are Predator Guards Necessary for Large Owl Boxes?
Yes, predator guards are necessary for large owl boxes. They protect your owls from raccoons, cats, and other predators, increasing nest success and ensuring a safer environment for your majestic birds to thrive and raise their young.
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.