Nest Box Placement Guide Nesting sites for cavity nesting birds can sometimes be scarce. Place nesting boxes in sites that would likely take the place of a natural cavity or nesting site for the given species you are hoping to attract or provide nesting holes for. Many locations may be suitable for a nest box such as along the edges of wooded areas, in the forest, along fences, and on or near buildings. The boxes can be installed on posts in these areas or directly on the area (such as on a tree, on a fence post, on or in the side of a building). The more sites that nest boxes are placed, the more options a searching pair of birds will have to choose from, potentially improving the odds of having a box successfully occupied. In general boxes should be placed so that the openings are not facing directly into the weather (southerly to easterly), and that they are protected from full sunlight. Some protection is good for the boxes in the form of branches or eves to help reduce predation, though the opening should be unobstructed with a clear flight path. Some nest boxes are designed with no perch at the opening to keep predators from having easy access to young birds. Installation Mount each box with brackets, cables, or desired equipment. If using a wooden post, it is recommended to cover the post with a non-climbable material for about three feet below the box (such as pipe or metal sheeting). A popular design when using a post to mount the box is to cut the post and install a hinge so that the box can be swung down for ease of cleaning.
Barn Owl Nest Box Location If placing in a wooded area (ideal placement is in a tree, which closest resembles their natural nesting site and provides shade):  Face the front of the box toward an open area so that passing barn owls can spot the entrance hole when searching for nesting sites. If placing on a barn or building:  Cut hole in the wall and place the box up to the hole for access. Provide shelter for the box by placing near the eve of the building.  Placing inside a building is acceptable, but be prepared for the potential mess that an owl family can create. Height: Place the nest box at least 10 feet above ground, higher is acceptable
Kestrel/Flicker Nest Box Location Kestrel boxes should be spaced approximately a quarter-mile apart from one-another, or farther. Kestrels would typically use nesting cavities made by woodpeckers. Placing more boxes than this is acceptable if you are interested in attracting Flickers, and will give both birds more options for nesting. Height: Place the nest box at least 10 feet above ground