Here at Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, we have always been proud of our commitment to helping wild Owls and Kestrels through the provision of nest boxes across the local area. In 2008 we joined forces with the Thornham Owl Project and our number of boxes increased to almost 300!
Whilst our staff have been encouraged to participate in this important element of our work, the breeding season happens to coincide with our peak visitor season, which means that in the past, the task of monitoring these boxes fell to dedicated volunteers Roger Buxton, originator of the Thornham Owl Project, and his colleague, the ever-enthusiastic Kevin. However, Covid forced them to pause their efforts, and unfortunately, Roger and Kevin decided that they were no longer able to climb ladders necessary to reach the boxes.
We’ve spent a bit of time gathering our team together and are pleased that Senior Falconer and Head of Hospital Jess, alongside Maintenance Man Jay have taken responsibility for the project, supported by Dr Hugh Hanmer from the British Trust for Ornithology and our Education Officer Susan.
Checking the boxes takes place over the winter months initially, on days when the weather is calm and dry so that should a bird be found roosting in a box, the disturbance is kept to a minimum. Having not been checked since 2019, it was essential to get these checks done to assess how many boxes were still present, in good condition or in need of some maintenance or replacement.
Having contacted land owners first to confirm access, the team have set about visiting our boxes and are happy to report that occupancy seems to be very high, with most boxes having evidence of use in recent months. Some Owls were even seen leaving the boxes as the team approached, which is a good sign that they might be used later in the season for breeding.
All of these checks are done with the appropriate licences and permits in place, as Barn Owl nests are protected by law. It is hoped that we can recruit landowners and local volunteers to help monitor the boxes during the breeding season so that the chicks can be ringed by Hugh, Jess and Susan.
Finally, we would like to thank all the donor organisations and individuals who have maintained their sponsorship of the S.O.S. Wild Owl Nest Box Scheme through an unwelcome hiatus in preparation for the long-awaited re-generation of this valuable conservation project. Thank you.