How to Build a Falcon Nest Box

A falcon nest box provides falcons with a place to lay their eggs and care for their young. If you see a falcon in your area build a falcon nest box and it will likely use it to nest and stay out of the elements. This gives you a rare opportunity to observe the falcons in their natural environment. Follow these steps to learn how to build one.

Things You'll Need

• Untreated wood
• Saw
• Drill
• Screws
• Paddle bit

Instructions

1. Build a rectangular box that is 23-by-32-by-20 inches. The box should be shallow. Falcons won't nest in anything that resembles a cave.

2. Position the falcon nest box on its side. Use scraps of wood to create a ledge 3 to 4 inches from the edge of the box.

3. Drill holes in the bottom for drainage purposes. Use a drill with a paddle bit attachment. The holes should be small to prevent harm to the falcon.

4. Utilize small, smooth gravel for a nest substrate and make it 3 to 4 inches deep. If the gravel is rough the eggs will crack.

5. Observe the falcon in your area to determine where you should place the falcon nest box. It should be placed in a high location near water.

Tips & Warnings

• Dress in appropriate climbing gear to mount the falcon nest box after you build it. This includes safety harnesses and carabiners. If you aren't an experienced climber get one to help you mount the falcon nest box in an appropriate location.

• Don't use treated wood when you build a falcon nest box. This can be fatal to the falcon.

• Never put a falcon nest box in an area frequented by people. Falcons are protective parents that will attack if they feel threatened.