3 Best Owl Houses for Large Bird Species in 2026
For large bird species like owls, choosing a sturdy, weatherproof house is key, so look for options made of high-quality cedar or fir with waterproof coatings. The best models, like the Screech Owl House with an interior perch and easy-clean design or a spacious Barn Owl House with mounting hardware, keep occupants cozy and safe from predators. Position these houses around 10-20 feet high and away from harsh weather, ensuring their comfort and safety. Keep exploring to discover more tips for creating the perfect owl haven.
Screech Owl House with Bird Stand, Large Cedar, Weatherproof, Prebuilt Box with Mounting Screws
- Size:11" x 5" x 6" Hanging Handmade Wooden Birdhouse. The Owl House is made of 100% premium natural fir...
- Design of the Barn Owl House is based on years of experience with owls and owlets. Easy to install, comes...
If you want a birdhouse that’s strong and easy to use, the Screech Owl House with Bird Stand is a great choice. It’s good for attracting larger birds like screech owls, kestrels, or small hawks. The house is made from natural cedar and fir, so it can handle bad weather. It has waterproof paint to keep it from fading or bleeding. The sturdy build stops rot and breakage. This means it will last many years. The big, barn-owl style house gives plenty of room. It also has extra perching poles for the birds to rest on.
Installing the house is simple. It comes with mounting screws so you can put it up easily outdoors. You can watch the birds enjoy their new home right from your yard.
This birdhouse is perfect for people who love nature and want to see owls and small raptors up close.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality weatherproof wood, so it lasts outdoors.
- Has lots of space and perch poles, good for larger birds.
- Easy to install, with screws included.
- Has a cleaning valve to make maintenance easy.
Cons:
- Large size means you need more yard space.
- May be tricky to install in very windy spots without shelter.
- The price is higher than basic birdhouses because of quality materials and extra features.
Large Barn Owl House with Mounting Screws and Wood Shavings
- Ventilation and Moisture Protection: Our Screech Owl House features a unique design that cuts off the...
- High Quality Materials: Constructed with thicker planks, this owl house is designed for durability and...
The Large Barn Owl House is a great choice if you want to welcome these night hunters to your yard. It comes with mounting screws and wood shavings, making it easy to set up and ready for owls. The house is made with a special bottom board that has cut-off corners and gaps. These features give the owls good airflow and help keep the inside dry. It’s perfect to use outside, even in bad weather.
The house is made from thick, sturdy wood. This helps it stand up to rain, wind, and snow. Inside, the house is cozy for owls, especially with the included wood shavings. The size of the house is 8.26 by 8.26 by 14.9 inches, which gives plenty of space for owls under 11 inches tall.
You can put the house between 10 and 20 feet high. Mounting it at the right height makes it easier for owls to find and stay in the house. Once set up, the house will attract barn owls to your yard quickly.
This owl house is best for people who want to help wildlife and enjoy watching birds. It is simple to install and designed to keep owls safe and comfortable.
Pros:
- Has good airflow features to keep the inside fresh.
- Made from strong, weather-proof wood for outdoor use.
- Comes with mounting screws and wood shavings to make setup easy and comfortable for owls.
Cons:
- Works best for small to medium-sized owls under 11 inches.
- Needs to be placed 10 to 20 feet high, which might be hard for some people.
- The house may need cleaning now and then to stay attractive to owls.
This owl house helps you support wildlife and enjoy watching these special birds in your yard. It is simple, strong, and ready to use.
Screech Owl House, Wooden Bird Box with Mounting Hardware
- Upgraded Safety Protection - Most of the owl house in the market like to set up a scratching pole outside...
- Ventilation and Moisture Protection - Bottom board of the owl house cuts off the four corners, leaving a...
This wooden bird box is made for big birds like screech owls. It is strong and lasts outside. The box measures 9 inches tall, 7.5 inches wide, and 14 inches long. It gives owls that are 9 to 11 inches tall a cozy home. It can also hold small birds.
The opening of the box is a neat circle. A wooden board and a scratching pole help keep unwanted animals out. Vents and gaps let fresh air in so the nest stays dry and cool. The box comes with hardware so you can easily hang it. You just need to put it 10 to 20 feet high in a tree. A bag of wood shavings is also included. It makes a soft bed so the birds have a quick start.
This bird box is great for people who love watching birds and want to help wildlife. It gives a safe, strong home for screech owls and small birds.
Pros:
- Made from thick, good wood. It lasts a long time outside.
- Has safety features like a scratching pole and wooden sides to stop predators.
- Easy to hang with included hardware. It comes with bedding wood shavings.
Cons:
- Must be placed high, 10 to 20 feet, which can be hard to do.
- Maybe too big for very small birds or small spaces.
- Putting it up may need climbing or tools, depending on the tree.
This bird box helps birds live safely in your yard. It is strong, safe, and easy to hang. Plus, it comes with cozy bedding for new nests. If you want to help birds like screech owls, this is a good choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Owl Houses for Large Bird Species
When choosing an owl house for large birds, you need to think about how sturdy the materials are—stuff like cedar or pine wood works well because it’s durable and weather-resistant. You’ll also want to pay attention to the entrance size and design to make sure it suits the bird’s size and needs, plus good ventilation and drainage to keep it cozy and dry. Finally, consider how you’ll mount the house, whether on a tree or pole, and make sure there’s enough space inside for the bird to feel safe and comfortable—after all, a comfy bird is a happy bird!
Material Durability
Choosing the right materials for owl houses is more than just picking what looks good. You want the house to last a long time and stay strong, no matter the weather. Thick cedar or good-quality wood work best because they don’t rot easily and can handle rain, snow, and sun. Applying waterproof paint or weatherproof coating on the house gives it a shield to keep moisture out. This helps the house stay dry and safe for the owls. Using wood that resists rot and breaking makes the house last even longer. It also holds up better when temperatures change or humidity rises. Building the house with strong, high-quality parts reduces the chance of it falling apart. This creates a safe and cozy space for owls to nest. Using tough materials protects the house from weather and keeps predators away. It makes sure the owls have a safe, warm home for many years.
Entrance Size & Design
Getting the size of the entrance right is very important when you build an owl house for big birds. The right size makes it easy for the birds to get in and out. It also stops small animals that you don’t want inside.
For large birds like screech owls and kestrels, make the opening between 3 and 4 inches across. This size is big enough for them to fly through easily. But it is small enough to keep out smaller animals, like squirrels or raccoons.
The shape and position of the entrance matter too. A recessed opening or a lip around the entrance can help keep predators away. You can also add a guard or a barrier around the hole. This makes it harder for unwanted animals to get inside.
Some owl houses have multiple or adjustable openings. This can help you suit different bird species or preferences. The goal is to make the house safe and cozy for your feathered friends.
Ventilation & Drainage
Once you decide where to put the entrance and how big it should be, it’s time to think about what happens inside the owl house. You need good airflow to keep the inside fresh. Proper ventilation helps move clean air in and bad air out. It also stops moisture from building up, which keeps mold and fungi away. Make sure the holes or gaps are in the right spots so air can flow but not cause cold drafts.
Drainage is also important. Small holes in the floor or a slightly sloped surface let rainwater fall out. This keeps the inside dry. A dry house stops feathers from getting soaked and prevents damage caused by extra moisture. Making sure there is good ventilation and drainage helps your owls stay comfortable and can make the house last longer. This way, you won’t need to fix or replace it too soon.
Mounting Options
Mounting your owl house the right way is very important. It helps keep the owls safe and gives them a good home. Big owls like to have a sturdy perch that won’t wobble or fall.
Place the house between 10 to 20 feet high. This keeps predators away and makes it easier for owls to get in and out. You can attach the house to a tree, pole, or building. Use strong screws, brackets, or mounts made to hold weight. Make sure everything is level so it doesn’t shift or fall in the wind. You don’t want your owl house to tip over or swing around.
Think about where the entrance faces. Avoid areas where strong wind or harsh sunlight come from. Pick a spot that is easy for you to reach. This makes cleaning and checking the house simple.
Space & Comfort
Have you ever wondered what makes an owl house comfy for big birds? It’s all about space and good design. Big owls need a big nest. The inside should be at least 8 to 14 inches tall and wide. This gives them room to turn around, stretch, and move their nesting stuff easily. No squeezing into tiny spots!
Adding extra perching poles inside helps the owls rest. It makes them feel safer and less stressed. The entrance should be the right size. If it’s too small, it’s hard for them to get in and out. The door should be big enough so they don’t feel crowded.
Good airflow is also important. Air moves inside, keeping the space dry and fresh. When all these parts—space, proper entrance, perches, and good ventilation—come together, the owl house becomes a cozy home. It helps the big owls stay happy and healthy.
Weather Resistance
When choosing an owl house for big birds, weather resistance is very important. Mother Nature can bring rain, snow, and humidity. You want a house made from weatherproof materials like cedar or treated wood. These materials won’t rot or warp over time. Cover the outside with waterproof paint or sealant. This keeps water out and stops decay. Good ventilation is also key. Gaps or vents help air flow inside and stop moisture from building up. A clean, dry inside keeps the nest healthy. Some owl houses have removable or easy-to-access panels. These make it simple to clean out dirt and mold. Lastly, pick a house with a steep roof or overhang. These features help water slide off and protect the opening from rain. Protecting the nest from weather helps the owls stay safe and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should Owl Houses Be Cleaned and Maintained?
You should clean and maintain owl houses at least once a year, preferably in late winter or early spring, to remove debris, check for damage, and guarantee a safe, comfortable environment that encourages owls to nest and rest peacefully.
What Is the Ideal Size for Large Owl Bird Entry Holes?
The ideal size for large owl bird entry holes is typically between 3 to 6 inches in diameter. You should select a size suitable for the specific species, ensuring they can enter comfortably while predators struggle to access the nest.
Are There Specific Materials Best Suited for Outdoor Owl Houses?
Yes, you should choose weather-resistant materials like cedar, cypress, or redwood for outdoor owl houses. These woods resist rot and decay, providing a durable, safe, and cozy nesting environment for large bird species.
Can Multiple Large Owls Share the Same Nesting Box?
Yes, multiple large owls can share a nest if the box is spacious and designed for communal roosting. You should choose a sturdy, large owl house that provides enough room for comfort, safety, and ease of movement.
How Do Weather Conditions Affect Owl House Placement Choices?
Weather conditions influence your owl house placement by guiding you to find sheltered, elevated spots protected from rain, wind, and direct sunlight. You should position the house in a shady, consistent spot to guarantee safety and comfort.
Joyce is the passionate founder of Chirping Hearts, a website dedicated to sharing her love for birds and providing valuable information about avian life. With a background in ornithology and years of experience in birdwatching, Joyce aims to inspire others to appreciate the beauty and diversity of birds. Through her engaging articles and guides, she hopes to foster a community of bird enthusiasts who share her enthusiasm for these incredible creatures. When she’s not writing, Joyce enjoys exploring nature trails and observing birds in their natural habitats.
Last update on 2026-01-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API