Q: What is a screech owl?
A: Screech owls are one of the smallest of owl species in North America. They eat large insects and small rodents such as mice. The two most common varieties of screech owls in the United States are the Eastern Screech Owl and Western Screech Owl.
Q: Do screech owls live where I do?
A: Screech owls are found in nearly every state in the United States as well as elsewhere in North America. Screech owls thrive in urban areas where they have a mix of trees and open spaces.
Q: Is the OwlView™ roosting window different than the opening on other products?
A: Absolutely! Most nest box openings are very small and do not provide the birds with a spot to roost which, means they are not typically visible to human eyes either. Our OwlView™ roosting window provides a perfect spot for both adult and baby screech owls alike to perch.
Q: Where should I place the nest box?
A: Using the large, 2 ½ inch screws provided or large nails, mount the nest box on a vertical tree trunk so that the top of the box is at least 10 feet off the ground. Hardwood trees like oaks, pine, pecan and other large trees are ideal. Bushy trees like cedar, juniper and large shrubs are not suitable. The owls will need an open area to fly into the box so, find a clear spot on the tree or create one by removing a few small limbs. Ideally, the OwlView™ roosting window of the box should face any direction EXCEPT due North. This will prevent cold, winter wind from entering the box directly. The box should be level or as close to level as possible in order to keep out rain and the elements. If it must tilt slightly, forward is preferable to backwards.
Q: What if I don’t have a suitable tree to place my box?
A: Nest boxes also will work well on the side of a house, garage, barn, etc.
Q: Do I need to put anything inside the box when I hang it?
A: A handful of dry leaves is all you need to place in the box.
Q: Is any other maintenance required?
A: No, these nest boxes are made of cedar and should last many years. They will weather naturally and fade into a color similar to the bark of the tree.
Q: What do I do if I have additional questions?
A: Call or email us and we will help in any way that we can!