Nest of mates: The kestrels and barn owl who live together

 

 

By Daily Mail Reporter

Last updated at 8:23 AM on 15th October 2009

 

 

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In the human world, house-sharing is often dictated by the limitations of space and finance.

 

But when you're as free as a bird, surely there are no such strictures.

 

So quite why these kestrels decided to share a home with a family of barn owls is a mystery.

 

Feathered friends: The baby barn owl and kestrels in Lincolnshire

 

Far from being a unique pairing however, it is apparently part of a growing trend.

 

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said it had seen an increase in the number of birds sharing their nest boxes with different species.

 

Barn owls in particular seem to attract the most varied tenants, with reports of the birds sharing with species including jackdaws and stock doves.

 

In Boston, Lincolnshire, where this picture was taken, the arrangement seemed to work well, as the owls hunted at night, leaving the kestrels to sleep and find food in the day.

 

Hunter: The barn owl is more likely to be seen catching mice at night

 

 

Other cohabiting species include blue tits and great tits, which have also been seen sharing with pied flycatchers.

The RSPB is now urging homeowners to clean out their nest boxes and put up new ones before birds begin house-hunting in the spring.

 

Richard James said: 'If birds are sharing, both species would appreciate another box.'

 

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1220461/Nest-mates-The-kestrels-barn-owl-live-together.html#ixzz0Tzwbm1Ju

Birds of the same freather....can make a good feather duster.

Do you reckon they have a "prey as you go" contract?:rolleyes:

I think so :wacky: