I have included a link to the Raptor Pilot Study for Levee Protection. The Ventura County Watershed Protection District (WPD) completed the study to see if raptors such as hawks and owls can reduce ground squirrels around dams and levees. You can read about the success of the findings below.
We built two perches and put them up on 3/8/2020. We are delighted to see hawks and owls enjoying the perches. I recommend putting cameras underneath the poles to see what birds use the perches.
Update: 11/4/24: Four Owl Boxes are occupied in Old Agoura, and two nests are also in trees. Note: Barn owl owlets are loud if you are interested in an owl box. Talk to your neighbors before installing.
Please note that you need to clean your owl box every year. Inspect the box in October. If it is unoccupied, remove debris. The Hungry Owl Project recommends always wearing gloves, a Tyvek suit, and an N95-rated respirator to help minimize the possible health risks of dealing with non-sterilized owl pellets. Tree of Life Rodent Control offers a service for cleaning owl boxes: Tree Of Life Rodent Control
LESSON LEARNED: Before purchasing a box, ask many questions. Find out if you need to modify the box to fit on a pole.
As for raptor perches? I LOVE THEM! However, you need to ensure the raptor poles are positioned where raptors can hunt off them. Your home may or may not be suitable for them.
At first, I wasn't sure if any raptors were landing on our perches. Now, I see action at night. Great horned owls use our perches, and I notice other birds enjoy using them!
Please watch our 7/10/24 Wild About Wildlife Sprint on Owls and Owl Boxes! It is on our Special Events page! Please contact
Barn Owl Box Guide — Ojai Raptor Center
