How to Design Barred Owl House Plans: 1 Minute to Create a Perfect Habitat for Barred Owls

Designing a house for barred owls requires understanding their natural habits and creating a safe, comfortable nesting environment. These adaptable birds prefer wooded areas and nest in tree cavities or abandoned nests, so your owl house should mimic these natural spaces. Begin by selecting rot-resistant wood, like cedar, and aim for an inner floor space of roughly 10" x 18" and a cavity at least 24" high. The entrance hole should be oval-shaped and about 6" wide by 7" high, placed roughly 4 inches from the top. Including a sloped roof and drainage holes will help keep the interior dry, while a roughened or grooved interior allows fledglings to climb out when it's time to leave.

Placement is just as crucial as construction. Mount the house on a tree or pole 12–30 feet off the ground, facing away from prevailing winds and in a quiet, wooded location. To deter predators, attach a baffle below the house. Avoid painting or treating the wood with chemicals that could be harmful. Finally, regularly inspect and clean the house during the off-season to maintain a healthy space for returning owls.

As a designer, I know how important it is to ensure functional harmony between the natural environment and artificial nesting structures. Blueprints and visualization are essential for success—using a specialized home designer tool can help you digitally plan, size, and refine your owl house. This ensures both the aesthetics and safety for the owls, making your handiwork not only effective but also beautifully integrated into your outdoor space.

Tips 1:

Install your barred owl house well before the breeding season (late winter to early spring) to increase the chances of attracting occupants. Consider placing multiple houses if you have ample wooded land, but space them far apart to prevent territorial disputes.

FAQ

Q: What size should a barred owl house be?

A: Inner dimensions of approximately 10" x 18" for the floor, 24" or greater height, and an oval entry hole of about 6" x 7" are ideal.

Q: Where is the best place to put a barred owl house?

A: In a wooded area, 12–30 feet above ground, mounted to a tree or pole, away from busy roads or yards.

Q: How can I prevent predators from entering the owl house?

A: Use baffles on the mounting pole and avoid branches that provide easy access for raccoons or snakes.

Q: Do I need to clean the owl house?

A: Yes, clean it annually after nesting season to remove old material and deter parasites.

Q: Can I use paint or wood treatment on the owl house?

A: Only use untreated, rot-resistant wood. Chemicals and paints can harm owls and their chicks.