New Owl Boxes Installed at Longlands Lake to Welcome Tawny Owls
Robert Stephenson with his owl hand crafted owl boxes
The team at West Cumbria Rivers Trust (WCRT) is installing two handcrafted owl boxes at Longlands Lake, hoping to attract Tawny Owls when they begin nesting in March.
The boxes have been specially made by Robert Stephenson, a Keswick-based craftsman with a lifelong passion for wildlife, particularly owls. Over the years, Robert has built and installed many owl boxes, with impressive success – most have quickly attracted Tawny Owls, and one even welcomed a Barn Owl within just two weeks! The Longlands community is excited to see if their new boxes will soon become home to these nocturnal visitors.
Designed for Owls, Built to Last
Made from durable larch, the boxes are built to support young owls as they grow. Key features include:
🦉 Internal cross-sections – Helping young owls climb up to the entrance
🦉 Small balcony – Allowing them to test their wings safely
🦉 No harmful chemicals – Oiled for waterproofing without toxins
🦉 Built-in peep hole – For discreet monitoring
🦉 Long-lasting – Sturdy design, glued and framed with metal, lasting 20-30 years
To ensure safe installation, the boxes will be secured with ratchets and safety ropes around the trees and monitored and maintained annually.
A Passion for Owls and Conservation
Robert first built an owl box forty years ago and placed it in a fir plantation where it successfully hosted nesting owls every year – until the plantation was sadly felled. Since then, he has continued to refine his designs, tailoring them for different owl species, including a recent trial box in Penrith for the incredibly cute species of ‘Little Owl’.
Robert finds joy and purpose in creating and maintaining his owl boxes. He personally checks them each year, ensuring they remain in top condition for their feathered occupants.
Karin Crofts, Project Manager for Longlands Lake/People on the Keekle, said:
“We’re so delighted with the boxes. We got to know Robert through Ian Creighton, our Project Advisor, and couldn’t believe it when we found out he makes these extraordinary boxes. You just can’t buy this sort of quality and tailored design. They are simply not available, and the design has been informed by his experience over forty years, and his passion for these beautiful birds. If we’re successful in attracting the owls, we’re hoping to create lots of fabulous community events around these fascinating creatures.”
Want an Owl Box in Your Garden?
Robert is happy to build and install owl boxes for those interested in attracting owls to their land or garden. He only charges for the timber, a small amount for his time, and petrol for installation - making this a truly special way to support both wildlife and Robert’s passion.
For more information, or to commission an owl box, contact West Cumbria Rivers Trust.
WCRT’s Longlands Lake project is supported by generous funding from Sellafield Social Impact Multiplied Ltd and Cumberland Council.
Photocall opportunity
What: Photo call with Karin Crofts, Project Officer - Longlands Lake/People on the Keekle
When: Thu 6 February, 1pm
Where: Longlands Lake, nr Cleator Moor, West Cumbria
Join us for a photo opportunity showcasing the newly installed owl boxes designed to attract Tawny Owls as they prepare for nesting season. Media attendees will have the chance to:
View the owl boxes in situ
Interview Karin Crofts about the project and its impact
WCRT’s Longlands Lake project is funded by Sellafield Social Impact Multiplied Ltd with support from Cumberland Council.
For more information; to confirm attendance or to request an owl box from Robert, please contact Rachel Swift.