Many larger species of birds that nest in cavities in trees or in older, undisturbed buildings are having difficulty finding suitable nesting sites as trees are felled or blown over and buildings are knocked down or converted.
Well designed and properly sited boxes undoubtedly help. About half the UK population of barn owls now nests in boxes provided by man.
Barn and tawny owls readily take to boxes in areas where they have suitable food to support themselves and their chicks. Little owls will use boxes but tend not to have as much difficulty in finding nesting sites as they need much smaller cavities than the larger species. Kestrels will take readily to boxes as do stock doves.
Chesterman Tree Care can advise on the ideal location in the tree and box size and supply and are more than happy fitting nest boxes for owls and kestrel.
Nest boxes should be installed by November to give the best chance of success the following year, although it may take several years before a new box is used.
Boxes will need to be cleaned out periodically when debris has built up. Jackdaws and grey squirrels, which often use nestboxes, will unfortunately fill up a box with debris very quickly.