Habitat loss has caused the decline of many raptors (hawks & owls). Hole nesting raptors often cannot find suitable places to nest. Old dead trees, which are often used for firewood, should be preserved as natural nesting sites for many species of wildlife. Artificial nest boxes can provide some species with suitable nest sites, especially in areas where natural nest sites have been destroyed. Attracting such small raptors as the American Kestrel and the Screech Owl is desirable because of their ability to control rodent populations and because they can be interesting to observe.

• Make sure that nails and screws do not protrude inside the box. Cut all pieces before cutting the back since its height can vary. Cut the corners off of the bottom to allow for drainage.
  
• Attach front to sides.
  
• Install bottom, then attach back to sides.
  
• The lid should be hinged, with a hook under the overhang to hold it in place.
  
• Drill holes in the back above and below the box for hanging.
  
• For best results, the 3" entrance hole should be mounted to face southeast. A one inch layer (no
  more) of pine shavings (not cedar or sawdust) in the bottom of the box will aide in incubation.
  
• Suitable habitat will be critical if any nest box is to be successful. Kestrels like open terrain and
  seldom enter wooded areas. Boxes should be placed 12 to 20 feet above the ground (on a pole,
  tree, barn, etc. ) Metal sleeves around the pole can deter predators from climbing the pole and entering the box.
  
• Screech owls live in open woodland terrain. Lightly wooded areas, city and rural parks and apple
  orchards are all good places to put a nest box for this species.