Strategies for Attracting Eastern Screech Owls to Your Garden or Habitat

How to Attract Eastern Screech Owls

Eastern screech owls are fascinating creatures that have captured the attention of many wildlife enthusiasts. Their distinctive calls and nocturnal habits make them a favorite among birdwatchers. If you’re interested in attracting these beautiful birds to your property, here are some effective strategies to help you achieve your goal.

First and foremost, it’s essential to create a habitat that mimics their natural environment. Eastern screech owls prefer dense, mature forests with plenty of trees and shrubs for nesting and foraging. To attract them, you can plant native trees and shrubs that provide food and shelter. Oak, hickory, and cherry trees are particularly appealing to these owls, as they offer both food and nesting sites.

Secondly, consider adding a birdhouse to your property. Eastern screech owls are cavity nesters, and providing a suitable nesting box can significantly increase your chances of attracting them. Choose a birdhouse that is designed specifically for screech owls, with an entrance hole that is 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter. Place the birdhouse in a quiet, secluded area with plenty of trees and shrubs nearby. It’s also important to position the birdhouse at the correct height—about 10 to 20 feet off the ground—and to ensure that it is facing the right direction, typically east or southeast.

In addition to creating a suitable habitat, you can also attract Eastern screech owls by providing food sources. These owls primarily feed on small mammals, such as mice, voles, and shrews. To support their diet, you can plant berry-producing shrubs and trees, such as holly, serviceberry, and dogwood. These plants not only provide food for the owls but also for their prey, which in turn attracts the owls.

Another way to attract Eastern screech owls is to minimize human disturbance in their habitat. Owls are sensitive to noise and light pollution, so it’s important to keep your property as natural as possible. Avoid using loud machinery or playing music at night, and try to minimize the use of outdoor lighting. By reducing human activity, you create a more welcoming environment for these nocturnal birds.

Lastly, it’s essential to be patient and observant when trying to attract Eastern screech owls. These owls may take some time to become accustomed to your property, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see them immediately. Keep an eye on your birdhouse and the surrounding area, and enjoy the process of observing these fascinating creatures as they become a part of your backyard ecosystem.

In conclusion, attracting Eastern screech owls to your property requires creating a suitable habitat, providing food sources, minimizing human disturbance, and being patient. By following these strategies, you can increase your chances of welcoming these enchanting birds into your backyard.