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  • Interesting place for a nest. I think maybe the pricks protect from predators and egg thieves as well?

    • So that was the obvious reason to me, soni decided to look up the critters that make the best originally. Owls only reuse other nests, as none of them make their own nests.

      The primary cactus carvers are the Gila Woodpecker (top) and the Flicker (bottom).

      I actually didn't see any reference to them building here to stay safe from predators. The primary reason given is climate control! The desert air is dry, so it heats up rapidly during the day, and can cool off very rapidly at night, sometimes to near freezing. By carving out the cactus, they get shade and a giant stack of insulation.

      They will start making their nests well before nesting, so the cavity can dry out and harden up, so it isn't all mushy.

      Once they're done with the hole, it can be used by a few types of owls and other desert animals in need of cozy shelter.

      I used this article for info on the woodpeckers if you want more details.