Burrowing owls are small, long-legged owls that live in open, treeless areas. They get their name from their habit of nesting underground in burrows dug out by other animals like prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and badgers. Burrowing owls are found in grasslands, prairies, deserts, and agricultural areas throughout western North America from Canada to Mexico.
These owls are active during the day and can often be seen perching on fence posts or on top of their burrows. They feed mainly on insects, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Burrowing owls face threats from habitat loss as grasslands and native prairies are converted to agricultural land. They are classified as endangered, threatened, or a species of special concern in many states and provinces. Providing artificial burrows and nest boxes can help support burrowing owl populations in areas where natural burrows are limited.
If you live in an area frequented by burrowing owls and want to attract them to your property, you can create an artificial burrow and nest chamber specifically designed for these small owls. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a burrowing owl nest:
Choosing a Location
– Pick an open location with a clear line of sight in all directions. Burrowing owls like to have a broad view of their surroundings to watch for predators and prey.
– Look for a south-facing slope that will provide sun exposure and warmth.
– Avoid low points where water may collect during rains.
– Select a site with sparse, short vegetation. The entrance to the burrow needs to be free of obstructing plants.
– Ensure the location is at least 200 yards from trees where perching raptors could prey on the owls.
Ideal Burrowing Owl Nest Locations
– Prairie dog towns. If prairie dogs are present, burrowing owls may already be using their abandoned burrows.
– Open fields, pastures, and grasslands.
– Golf courses and airports. The mowed turf provides the open habitat burrowing owls prefer.
– Agricultural fields. Keep the nest at least 500 feet from livestock pens or barns.
– Road allowances. The flat, maintained right-of-ways provide good nesting habitat.
Digging the Burrow
Burrowing owls nest 6 to 15 feet underground, so you will need to dig a long tunnel to create an artificial burrow. Follow these tips when excavating the hole:
– Use a shovel and post-hole digger for removing soil. Make sure to wear gloves and safety goggles.
– Dig at a 30 to 40 degree angle below horizontal.
– The tunnel should be about 9 inches in diameter to accommodate the small owls.
– Extend the burrow 6 to 10 feet into the ground.
– Create one or more nest chambers by excavating larger hollows off the main tunnel. The chambers should be about 16 inches in diameter.
Burrow Construction Tips
– Avoid tunneling underneath thick sod, large rocks, and roots.
– Shore up areas with loose soil to prevent tunnel collapse.
– Line the tunnel entrance with rocks or bricks for stabilization.
– Disguise the opening by partially covering it with natural materials.
Installing the Nest Box
At the end of the burrow tunnel, mount an owl nest box in one of the nest chambers.
Nest Box Specifications
– Dimensions: At least 16 inches deep x 10 inches high x 12 inches wide.
– Materials: Unfinished, unpainted wood. Avoid treated lumber.
– Entrance hole: 3 inches diameter, positioned on the side, not the top.
– Ledge or gripping surface below entrance hole.
– Ventilation holes near the top.
– Loosely packed wood shavings 2-3 inches deep for nesting material.
Nest Box Installation
– Securely fasten the box in the chamber using screws drilled into pre-installed mounting blocks.
– Ensure the entrance hole aligns with the burrow tunnel. You may need to shift the box’s position to match up the openings.
– Make sure the box fits snugly so that loose soil cannot fall into the nest chamber.
Maintaining the Burrow
Regular maintenance is important for keeping your burrowing owl burrow in good condition. Here are some care tips:
– Inspect the burrow entrance after heavy rains. Remove any dirt or debris plugging the opening.
– Ensure the entrance remains clear of vegetation. Periodically remove any plants sprouting up.
– Check for holes, cave-ins, or other damage. Repair any issues immediately to prevent predator access.
– Watch for signs of nest occupation. Don’t begin maintenance until eggs have hatched and owlets fledge.
– Refill the nest box with fresh wood shavings each fall. Carefully remove old material first.
– Have a wildlife expert inspect the burrow every 2-3 years. They can assess its safety and functionality.
– Eliminate any potential hazards from the area, such as sharp objects, tall grass, or pesticide use.
Attracting Burrowing Owls
It may take some time for owls to find and start using your artificial burrow. Here are some tips to make the nest site appealing:
– Make sure the burrow is visible from 140 yards away. Its entrance should be easy to spot.
– Position perches like fence posts or raised dirt mounds nearby.
– Include a clear flyway for easy access without obstructions.
– Provide prey habitat by allowing natural vegetation to grow around the burrow.
– Use an owl call playback system to attract owls during nesting season.
– Protect the burrow from predators with an electric fence and predator guards.
– Avoid any disturbance of the nest from March to August during breeding season.
Benefits of Supporting Burrowing Owls
Installing burrowing owl nests provides many advantages:
– Helps increase and stabilize declining populations.
– Provides pest control by allowing owls to naturally reduce rodents and insects.
– Contributes to biodiversity through promotion of a variety of wildlife.
– Creates an opportunity to enjoy viewing fascinating owls near your home.
– Provides a positive educational experience, especially for children.
– Assists with conservation and species preservation efforts.
Key Facts About Burrowing Owls
Scientific Name | Athene cunicularia |
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Average Length | 7.5 – 10 inches |
Average Wingspan | 21 – 24 inches |
Average Weight | 4 – 8 ounces |
Lifespan | Up to 8 years in wild, over 10 years in captivity |
Habitat | Open country in grasslands, prairies, deserts, and agricultural areas |
Nest Placement | Underground burrows dug by other animals |
Conclusion
Providing an artificial burrow is an effective way to attract burrowing owls to live and nest on your property. By digging a long underground tunnel with nest chambers and properly installing a nest box, you can create ideal habitat for these small owls. Maintaining and protecting the burrow site will increase its appeal to any burrowing owls in the area looking for a home. Supporting burrowing owl populations in this way contributes to the conservation of the species. Enjoy watching the interesting behaviors of these daytime owls if they take up residence in the burrow you installed just for them!