Owls face many challenges in our suburban neighborhoods around Washington. These amazing birds help control rodent populations and bring natural wonder to our communities.
By taking a few simple actions, we can make our neighborhoods more owl-friendly and help these magnificent birds thrive right in our backyards.
1. Install Owl Nesting Boxes
Many owl species in Washington will happily move into ready-made homes! Mounting a nesting box about 10–20 feet high on a tree trunk creates perfect housing for barn owls, screech owls, and saw-whet owls.
Different owl species need different box designs, so research which owls live in your neighborhood before building or buying. The box should face away from prevailing winds and have proper drainage holes.
2. Reduce Outdoor Lighting
Bright lights confuse nocturnal hunters like owls. They rely on darkness for successful hunting and can become disoriented by excessive artificial lighting.
Switch to motion-sensor lights that only activate when needed. Use downward-facing fixtures that minimize light pollution, and choose warm-colored bulbs instead of harsh white LEDs. Creating dark zones in your yard gives owls the hunting conditions they need.
3. Maintain Mature Trees
Dead trees in Washington might look unsightly, but they’re owl condominiums! Many owl species nest in tree cavities that form naturally in aging trees. If a tree isn’t threatening your home, consider keeping it standing.
Mature live trees provide essential hunting perches and daytime roosting spots. Before removing any large trees from your property, consult with an arborist about whether they might serve as valuable owl habitat.
4. Create Rodent-Friendly Zones
Owls need to eat! A corner of your yard with tall grass and brush piles creates habitat for mice and voles—owl’s favorite dinner. No need for the entire yard; even a small section helps.
Leave fallen leaves in certain areas instead of bagging them all up. The leaf litter creates homes for insects, which attract small mammals, which then attract owls. This natural food chain supports owl populations without any extra work from you.
5. Stop Using Rat Poison
Rodenticides are owl killers in disguise. When owls eat poisoned mice or rats, they ingest the poison too, causing internal bleeding and often death.
Switch to snap traps or electronic traps for rodent problems. Better yet, encourage natural predators like owls by making your yard welcoming to them! If you must hire pest control, specifically request non-toxic methods and explain your concern for local wildlife.
6. Plant Native Trees And Shrubs
Native plants support the entire food web that owls depend on. Douglas fir, Western red cedar, and Oregon white oak provide excellent roosting spots for local owl species.
Dense shrubs like salal and Oregon grape create cover for small mammals that owls hunt. Native plants also require less maintenance and water once established, making your yard both owl-friendly and easier to care for!
7. Provide A Water Source
Though owls get most moisture from their prey, they appreciate water sources during dry spells. A simple birdbath or small pond attracts insects and amphibians, which attract small mammals, which attract owls!
Place water features away from dense shrubs where predators might hide. Keep the water clean and fresh. During freezing weather, a heated birdbath ensures owls have access to water when natural sources freeze over.
8. Join Community Science Projects
Become an owl detective! Programs like the Puget Sound Seabird Survey and NestWatch need volunteers to monitor owl populations. Your observations help scientists track owl health and habitat needs.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife often seeks citizen scientists for owl monitoring projects. Local Audubon chapters organize owl prowls where you can learn to identify different species by their calls. These community efforts directly support owl conservation.
9. Keep Cats Indoors
Our feline friends are wonderful companions but terrible for wildlife. Even well-fed cats hunt instinctively, and young owls learning to fly are particularly vulnerable to cat attacks.
Create an enriching indoor environment for your cat with climbing trees, window perches, and interactive toys. If your cat demands outdoor time, consider a catio or enclosed outdoor space. This protects both the cat and local wildlife.
10. Advocate For Owl-Friendly Policies
Your voice matters! Attend local planning meetings when development projects are discussed. Ask questions about how wildlife corridors and mature trees will be preserved.
Contact your representatives about strengthening protections for urban wildlife. Support organizations like the Washington Environmental Council that fight for habitat conservation. Neighborhood associations can adopt owl-friendly guidelines for landscaping and lighting in common areas.