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How to Care for Nesting Screech Owls

For bird enthusiasts, observation of screech owls are enchanting. They are often the most commonly found owls in most wooded suburban and urban habitats east of the Rockies and south of the northern boreal forests, according to the National Audubon Society. Breeding season runs mid April to mid May. Pairs mate for life almost exclusively in deciduous tree cavities, but they will also nest in suitable nest boxes. They don't add nesting material and lay on average three to five eggs. Fledglings can be enjoyed for a full month before leaving the nest.

Things You'll Need

Bird bath or shallow pond
Deciduous tree cavity or nesting box
Binoculars

Instructions

How To Care For Nesting Screech Owls
- 1
  Provide large native shade trees overlooking open areas. They are used as critical hunting perches for the parents for important food sources for their fledglings that include small woodland mammals such as deer mice, cotton rats, bats, chipmunks and moles for their young
- 2
  Provide additional plantings for development of proper habitat including native bushes and shrubs that support other food sources for owls including large insects, tree frogs and small birds.
- 3
  Keep dead trees, hollow trees, snags and dead limbs intact---especially those where woodpeckers have been at work.
- 4
  Mount nesting boxes high in large trees at least 10 feet up.
- 5
  Provide a shallow pond or bird bath.
- 6
  Keep a sharp eye out for a healthy brood with regular observations via binoculars ensuring adequate feedings and protected nest in tact.

Animals & Science