Volunteers across Tees Valley are celebrating a notable rise in the local barn owl population.
Significant increase in barn owl sightings
Tees Valley Wildlife Trust reported that in 2025, the number of barn owls ringed in their area rose by 42%, from 249 in 2024 to 354. This growth offers hope for the species’ future.
Colin Gibson, volunteer barn owl coordinator and retired police officer, said he believes the increase results from better habitat protection, improved nesting sites, and favorable climate conditions. He highlighted the combined efforts of volunteers and local communities as essential to this success.
Nest boxes play a crucial role
The trust has run the project for more than 12 years, aiming to improve the local population by building over 400 nest boxes. The organization explained that man-made boxes now serve as critical homes because natural sites in old trees and derelict buildings have disappeared. Ash dieback and modernization of old farm buildings have contributed heavily to the loss of traditional nesting places.
Working with the Tees Ringing Group, volunteers count and ring eggs and chicks. Each owlet receives a unique number, allowing researchers to track its growth and migration over time.
Supporting other species
The trust noted that the nest boxes also provide shelter for other birds, including tawny owls, kestrels, stock doves, and jackdaws. Volunteers enjoy watching these species benefit from the same conservation efforts.
Although the breeding season has ended for the year, Mr. Gibson confirmed that volunteers continue building new boxes and repairing old ones. Their ongoing dedication ensures barn owls and other birds have secure habitats for the future.
