Is It Worth Installing a Nesting Box for Kestrels in Your Backyard Ash Tree?

Have you considered installing a nesting box for kestrels in your backyard ash tree? If you're in an area where kestrels are indigenous, setting up a proper nesting box can be a worthwhile endeavor. However, several factors should be taken into account to ensure the success of your project.

Factors to Consider Before Installation

Indigenous Habitat: Kestrels are a species of falcon that are often found in open fields and meadows. Their presence in a region indicates that the area could be suitable for nesting. Abundance of Prey: Kestrels rely on small prey such as mice, shrews, and voles. Areas with a high density of these prey are particularly attractive to kestrels. Proximity to Existing Box Programs: Local wildlife agencies often set up nesting boxes for kestrels. Studying these programs can provide valuable insights into proper construction and placement.

Example of Successful Kestrel Box Programs

Washington State Fish and Wildlife has set up a number of active kestrel nesting boxes. Observing these boxes can help you understand the preferences of kestrels in your area.

According to sources, kestrel boxes set up by Washington State Fish and Wildlife have proven to be very active.

These boxes are often placed on bare poles rather than trees, which may be area-specific. Contact your local equivalent wildlife agency for guidance on the proper construction and placement of a kestrel box.

Construction and Placement Guidelines

When constructing a nesting box for kestrels, it's important to pay close attention to the size and opening. Kestrels are very sensitive to these details. Here are some key points to consider:

Opening Size: The entrance hole should be appropriately sized to deter other bird species from using the box. A common size for kestrel boxes is a 2.5-inch diameter hole. Placement on Bare Poles: Placing the box on a bare pole can provide kestrels with a better view of their surroundings and more exposure to potential prey. Proximity to Food Sources: Ideally, the nesting box should be located near open fields or meadows where prey is abundant.

Installing a nest box on a mature ash tree of approximately 90 feet tall is possible, but it's important to ensure that the tree is strong and stable to support the weight of the box and the birds.

Conclusion

Installing a nesting box for kestrels in your backyard ash tree can be a rewarding endeavor, especially if you live in an area where kestrels are indigenous and the local prey population is sufficient. By following the guidelines and guidance from local wildlife agencies, you can increase the chances of success for your kestrel nesting box project.

Invest some time and effort into the project, and you may be rewarded with the pleasant sight of kestrels using your box to raise their young.