HawkTalk Issue 94 Summer 2023

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HAWKTALK SUMMER 2023 ISSUE 94

Raptor Nest Box Project

As part of this project, Matt puts up nest boxes for four bird of prey species: Barn Owls, Kestrels, Little Owls and Tawny Owls across eight counties in southern England. Since 2008, the project has grown from 38 nest boxes to a remarkable 1,277 specifically-designed, hand-built nest boxes. The boxes provide alternative nest sites where natural sites have been lost. Our aim is to increase breeding opportunities and, ultimately, to increase the population of these species. The nest boxes also enable us to monitor the chicks as they grow in each box. Many of these nest boxes are used every year, and each year some need repairing or replacing. It’s been another busy year for Dr Matt Stevens, our UK Conservation Biologist, and the dedicated group of volunteers working as part of our Raptor Nest Box Project.

Photo courtesy of Paul Gray

Photo courtesy of Paul Gray

NUMBER OF NEST BOXES DESIGNED FOR EACH SPECIES

ONGOING MAINTENANCE WORK Last year, more than 30 nest boxes were replaced due to damage from Storm Eunice, as well as from loss of trees through Ash Dieback. Many of our boxes are built by a committed group of volunteers who have spent hours constructing them in their own homes or in our workshop at the Trust. Last year, we also received a grant obtained by the Wessex Farm Conservation farmer cluster, enabling us to install new boxes to the north of Andover. These new boxes and replacements will provide more safe nesting sites for these birds.

1,277 IN TOTAL