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Note: The most up to date specifications are available on the dedicated ACRES / ACRES CP website under Non Productive Investments – Click Link Here
Barn Owl/Kestrel Nest Box
To support Barn Owl and Kestrel populations.
Why?
For the full details on requirements for this action you should read the Dept. of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s Specifications for Non Productive Investments.
Implementation Notes
A quiet location is essential, Barn Owl nest boxes must be at least 5m up. If located in a tree it must be stout enough not to sway in the wind.
No more than two boxes will be approved in the same field or farmyard.
Good Locations:
Note: Attaching Barn Owl boxes to a masonry archaeological Monument, e.g. a castle is not permitted.
Poor Locations:
Why can I not have more than 2 Barn Owl Boxes in the same farmyard?
Barn Owls do not nest in groups or colonies. Providing them with two boxes gives them some choice but is no benefit to Barn Owls by having any more than two boxes in the one location. If you want to install more than do so in a different part of the farm, they may be used by a different pair of birds.
Why are Barn Owl Boxes not allowed near Motorways?
Sadly a lot of Owls are killed on busy roads and motorways. They are at risk not just from collisions but can also be knocked to the ground by the air turbulence from fast moving trucks and buses. Even minor injuries are invariably fatal as the bird will not be able to fly or hunt. For this reason it is best not to attract Barn Owls into areas where they would face greater risks.
Can I make a Barn Owl Box myself?
Yes once guidance is followed in the specifications. A link to the DAFM Specifications for Non Productive Investments can be found in the What’s Involved” section of this page.
Can I attach a Barn Owl box to a building?
Yes you can attach a Barn owl box to a building as long as it is not an archaeological monument, e.g. a castle.
Do not place a Barn Owl box in a busy part of the farmyard. A quiet outbuilding away from the main farmyard would be better.
