Great Horned Owl House Plans for Your Backyard: Fast-Track Guide to Designing Owl-Friendly HomesSarah ThompsonSep 08, 2025Table of ContentsTips 1:FAQTable of ContentsTips 1FAQFree Smart Home PlannerAI-Powered smart home design software 2025Home Design for FreeThe majestic Great Horned Owl is a captivating backyard visitor, and providing a suitable nesting box can increase your chances of observing these iconic raptors up close. If you’re interested in attracting Great Horned Owls to your property, designing the right owl house is crucial. These owls are large, adaptable birds that require spacious, elevated, and well-protected nesting spaces. Below, I’ll outline the key requirements, best practices for placement, and some design tips for a successful Great Horned Owl house plan.Owl House Size and Dimensions: Great Horned Owls require big nesting boxes because of their size. Aim for an interior floor space of at least 24x24 inches (60x60 cm) and an entrance hole at least 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter. The box should be around 24 inches (60 cm) tall, with sturdy construction to withstand the elements and the weight of owl occupants.Material Considerations: Use untreated, weather-resistant wood like cedar or cypress for the box. Ensure the structure is durable and offers some insulation against temperature changes.Location and Mounting: Place your owl house at least 15-30 feet (5-10 meters) above ground, mounted on a sturdy tree trunk or a specially constructed post. It should face away from prevailing winds and be somewhat secluded, ideally overlooking open ground where owls can hunt.Design Features Matter: As a designer, I always emphasize integrating both function and aesthetics. Consider adding a slightly overhanging roof to shed rain and discourage predators. Drill small drainage holes in the floor for moisture management and a few ventilation holes near the top for fresh air flow. Blend the box’s exterior with natural paint or stains to minimize visual disturbance in your landscape.Design Tools & Inspiration: Planning a project like an owl house often leads me to reach for residential design tools—whether I’m visualizing the house’s fit in the landscape or ensuring structural integrity. If you’re looking for an efficient way to mock up your owl house and see how it pairs with your backyard’s layout, check out a comprehensive home designer tool. It helps you experiment with placement, style, and function, ensuring your project complements your overall outdoor space.Tips 1:Ensure your owl box has at least two inches (5 cm) of bedding material, like wood chips, on the floor to support the eggs and offer insulation. Regularly clean the box between nesting seasons, and keep it clear of debris. Proper maintenance increases the appeal to owls and preserves the structure, mirroring thoughtful design practices in home interiors.FAQQ: What is the best height for mounting a Great Horned Owl house? A: Mount the house 15-30 feet (5-10 meters) above ground, ideally on a mature tree trunk or strong post.Q: What materials are safe for building an owl house? A: Untreated, weather-resistant woods like cedar or cypress are recommended for durability and safety.Q: How large should the entrance hole be for Great Horned Owls? A: The entrance hole should measure 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter to fit these large birds comfortably.Q: What kind of bedding should I use in the owl box? A: Use coarse wood chips or shavings, at least two inches deep, to help cushion the eggs and provide insulation.Q: Where should I place the owl house in my yard? A: Choose a secluded location, away from high-traffic areas, that has a good view of open ground suitable for hunting.Home Design for FreePlease check with customer service before testing new feature.