A Barn Owl nestbox mounted on a pole may be the only option if there are no suitable buildings or trees around. More about nestboxes on a pole.
Our recommended deep nestbox features an exercise platform that goes all the way around, providing maximum safety for emerging young.
How to choose the best nestbox design.
How to make a Barn Owl pole nestbox – step by step photo instructions:
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- The cutting plan (see webpage for dimensions)
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- The joint along the bottom of the Inspection Hatch must be ‘weather-sealed’ e.g. with Ever-build weather-mate
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- We use pressure treated FSC-approved 12 mm softwood ply
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- The battens are 25x50mm pressure treated FSC-approved softwood
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- The vertical battens stop the ladder sliding to one side while the exercise platform is being fitted.
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- The internal battens at the bottom take the floor screws
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- The floor is thicker – 18mm plywood
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- The roof sections can be waterproofed or felted
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- The Exercise Platform is made in 2 halves that slide together after the box is erected
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- The Roost Area partition and floor.
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- Attach the Roost Area to the end that has the Inspection Hatch
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- Now attach the floor to the other end using 40 or 50mm screws
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- Now attach the other end. Use plenty of screws!
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- Weather-proof sealant MUST be applied before attaching the sides
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- Position the side and screw to the end using 50mm screws.
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- Screw up through the foor and into the sides
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- Screw through the sides into the Roost Area partition
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- Using 80mm screws, attched the 50x50mm apex timber
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- Use 50mm screws to attach the roof sections
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- Use plenty of screws!
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- If you are not going to felt the box, seal the top with a strip of aluminium
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- Parts of the Exercise Platform. Notice the way the 50×50 pieces are rebated.
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- Use 40mm screws straight or 50mm screws at a slight angle.
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- Now attach the longer end pieces…
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- …then the short lengths
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- Then the three battens (the ones under his hand)
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- Slide the first half on to the box to check it fits easily.
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- Then slide on the second half. The slats are important for fast drainage.
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- Now attached the side battens to one half only so you can slide both halves off again
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- Once the box is erected (on a pole) you screw the side battens to both halves
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