I added Bees to the homestead this year, just one hive for now. I haven't quite gotten them all named. To be honest, it's a nightmare, you have to come up with a couple hundred names a day.
So, I am more focused on natural pest control. To the already too long todo list, Bat houses, Martin house, I plant citronella everywhere and I am going to plant some lemon grass as well all for insects. I'd rather not have a traditional mouser, not a cat person, only if it becomes necessary. So as I read Toms falconer post , it reminded me that I had Owl nest boxes on the list. We see lots of diurnal raptors, Redtails, Broadwings, Coopers, and Kites are some of the more common daily sightings if you take the time to look.
We have 4 species of owl living on the property I have heard and seen all 4, haven't found any hidey-holes yet but the only one I don't have a general idea of its area is the screech. The other 3 are great horned, Barred and Barn owl. I am going to build one for each species and see if I can attract more to the property. If it works and it is not cost prohibitive because of location, I may webcam some if I can reach. Have any of you put up a nesting box for an owl? Any input is appreciated.
So, I am more focused on natural pest control. To the already too long todo list, Bat houses, Martin house, I plant citronella everywhere and I am going to plant some lemon grass as well all for insects. I'd rather not have a traditional mouser, not a cat person, only if it becomes necessary. So as I read Toms falconer post , it reminded me that I had Owl nest boxes on the list. We see lots of diurnal raptors, Redtails, Broadwings, Coopers, and Kites are some of the more common daily sightings if you take the time to look.
We have 4 species of owl living on the property I have heard and seen all 4, haven't found any hidey-holes yet but the only one I don't have a general idea of its area is the screech. The other 3 are great horned, Barred and Barn owl. I am going to build one for each species and see if I can attract more to the property. If it works and it is not cost prohibitive because of location, I may webcam some if I can reach. Have any of you put up a nesting box for an owl? Any input is appreciated.