People build nest boxes for declining owl population

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The smallest owl in Florida is becoming more rare.

Experts in Pinellas County said the Eastern Screech Owl’s population has been declining in the southeastern U.S. over the last ten years. 

There are efforts to help the bird rebound in Pinellas County.

The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Extension in Pinellas County is hosting nest box building events before the owl’s breeding season starts.

Andrea Kiernan attended a nest box building event in January.

“I love my birds, and the screech owls are absolutely adorable and anything we can help to give them a nest and let them have babies that’s what we’re going to do,” Andrea Kiernan said.

Over the last ten years, the UF IFAS extension in Pinellas County said the Eastern Screech Owl’s population has declined by about 16% in the southeastern U.S.. 

Natural resources agent Lara Milligan said that habitat loss is to blame. 

“Just the cutting down of our natural areas. As we’re cutting down trees, we’re not only destroying their homes, but also their food chain, food supply and all the animals that they depend on to feed on and thrive and survive,” said Lara Milligan Natural Resources Agent, UF IFAS Extension Pinellas County.

At their latest event, they distributed 19 boxes that will serve as artificial habitats. 

“By providing these houses, hopefully they’ll be attracted to them and say, ‘Hey, like this is suitable habitat for me,’ raise their young there and help their populations to rebound,” Milligan said.

A few screws later, Kiernan is all done. She plans to put the nest box in a tree in her backyard. 

“They usually sit with their heads sticking out and sun themselves during the day. It’s pretty cool,” Kiernan said.

Last year, the extension distributed nearly 100 nest boxes over four different species. 

The UF IFAS Extension in Pinellas County will host another nest building event

It’ll be at Brooker Creek Preserve on Feb. 21, 2026.