Supporting Local Wildlife with Handcrafted Nesting Boxes
At Orroland Holiday Cottages in the heart of Dumfries & Galloway, guests are often delighted by the rich variety of birds and wildlife that thrive in our peaceful countryside setting. This spring, we’ve added a new feature to help our feathered friends feel even more at home—over 20 handcrafted bird nesting boxes, carefully installed throughout our estate.
Whether you’re a keen birdwatcher or simply love being close to nature, our cottages offer the perfect base for a wildlife-friendly holiday in Scotland.
Made from sustainable treated softwood, the bird boxes were built from scratch in our workshop using designs recommended by the British Trust for Ornithology. Each box was thoughtfully positioned in wooded areas and gardens around the cottages to create inviting habitats for nesting birds.
We take pride in our hands-on approach to conservation—giving nature a helping hand is part of what makes Orroland so special.

We used treated softwood planks, cut and assembled in our own workshop.

We sited the boxes in the gardens and woodland around the cottages. This box is located near Auchengashell.
A New Home for Barn Owls
Last summer, a pair of barn owls nested in one of our farm buildings, capturing the hearts of visiting guests. To support their return, we’ve installed a dedicated barn owl nesting box made from 100% recycled plastic. Designed for comfort and safety, it provides an ideal nesting site to encourage these beautiful birds to breed safely in our woodland environment.

The nest box is made from 100% recycled plastic and is designed especially for barn owls.
Set across acres of private grounds, Orroland’s landscapes have been nurtured over decades—from wildflower meadows to woodlands and peaceful ponds. We are proud to be a sustainable holiday destination, continually working to enhance the biodiversity of our estate.
The addition of nesting boxes is just one of many ways we help local wildlife to flourish—and invite our guests to enjoy the tranquility that comes with it.
Guests often enjoy spotting birds while walking through the grounds, relaxing in the gardens, or enjoying breakfast to the tune of birdsong. Whether you’re travelling with family or looking for a peaceful solo escape, Orroland offers memorable birdwatching opportunities just outside your cottage door.
Ready to relax in nature, wake to birdsong, and explore the great outdoors? Book your Dumfries & Galloway holiday cottage at Orroland today for a truly tranquil getaway.