How to Craft the Perfect Squirrel Den Box

How to Craft the Perfect Squirrel Den Box: A Guide for Backyard Wildlife Lovers

You know that feeling, right? You're sipping your morning coffee, watching the sunrise paint the sky with warm hues, and then â€" BAM! A flash of bushy tail and bright eyes zips past your window. A squirrel, of course! These little bundles of energy bring a certain charm to our backyards, but have you ever considered making their lives a little bit easier? Enter the world of squirrel den boxes!

Building a squirrel den box is a fantastic way to attract these playful creatures to your yard and provide them with a safe and cozy haven. Not only will you get to observe their antics up close, but you'll also be contributing to their well-being. So, grab your tools, put on your thinking cap, and let's get started!

Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Squirrel Den Box

Before we even start building, let's find the ideal location for our squirrel sanctuary. We want to make sure our den box is both inviting and secure for our furry friends.

High and Dry is the Way to Go

Think about squirrels' natural habitats â€" they love to nest high up in trees, away from predators and pesky critters. Mimic this by placing your den box at least 6 feet off the ground. A sturdy tree branch, a sturdy post, or even a tall, sturdy bracket attached to a building are all great options. Just make sure it's not within reach of curious cats or determined raccoons!

Shelter from the Storm

Squirrels need protection from the elements, so find a spot that offers some shade from the summer sun and protection from heavy rain and snow. A spot with a bit of an overhang would be ideal.

Privacy Please!

Squirrels are naturally shy creatures. They want to feel safe and secure in their nest. So, make sure your den box is situated away from busy areas of your yard, like pathways or patios. Think of it as a private retreat for our furry friends!

Building Your Squirrel Den Box: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we've chosen the perfect spot, let's talk about the den box itself. This part is super fun because you can get creative and personalize it!

Materials You'll Need

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to build your den box. Some of these you may already have around the house.

Wood (1" x 6" or 1" x 8" boards are good choices)

Screws (1-1/2" or 2" long)

Saw (handsaw or circular saw)

Drill with a screwdriver bit

Measuring tape

Level

Pencil

Safety goggles

Optional: Exterior stain or paint (water-based is best)

Optional: Roofing shingles (for extra protection from the elements)

Once you’ve gathered everything, you’re ready to start building!

The Den Box Design: A Detailed Breakdown

Here's a basic design you can follow. This is just a guideline, so feel free to get creative with the dimensions and add your own unique touches.

1. The Base: Cut two pieces of wood (1" x 6" or 1" x 8") to be 10 inches long. These will be the sides of your base.
2. The Front and Back: Cut two more pieces of wood to be 10 inches long. These will be the front and back of your den box.
3. The Top: Cut one piece of wood to be 10 inches long and attach it to the front and back pieces to create the top.
4. The Roof: Cut two pieces of wood (1" x 6" or 1" x 8") to be 12 inches long. These will be the sides of your roof. Attach them to the top piece, creating a slight overhang.
5. The Entrance: Cut a circular or rectangular opening in the front piece of your den box. Make sure it's large enough for a squirrel to enter and exit easily (about 3-4 inches wide and high).
6. Ventilation: Drill a few small holes on the sides or back of the den box for ventilation.
7. Assembly: Attach the sides of your base to the front and back pieces, creating a rectangular box. Then, attach the roof to the box, creating a slightly slanted roof.

And there you have it! A basic squirrel den box!

Adding Touches of Comfort and Security

We want our squirrel den box to be the ultimate cozy retreat for our furry friends. Let’s add some extra touches to make it extra inviting!

Soft Bedding

Squirrels love to snuggle up in a comfy nest! You can place a layer of soft bedding inside the den box. Here are a few ideas:

Shredded paper: A great and readily available option. Just make sure it’s free of inks and dyes!

Shredded leaves: Nature's own bedding! Collect some fallen leaves and place them inside.

Soft fabric scraps: Cut up old t-shirts or towels (again, make sure they’re free of dyes and chemicals).

Extra Insulation

To keep things warm in winter and cool in summer, consider adding insulation to your den box. You can line the inside with a thin layer of foam insulation or use a sheet of plywood for a more substantial layer.

Weatherproofing: A Must!

Since our den box will be exposed to the elements, it’s important to make sure it’s weatherproof. You can do this by applying a water-resistant stain or paint to the exterior. You can also add a layer of roofing shingles to the roof for extra protection.

Monitoring Your New Squirrel Habitat

You've done all the work! Now it's time to wait and see if your den box becomes a hit! But don’t worry, you can keep an eye on things without disturbing your tenants. Here are a few tips:

Patience is Key

It might take a few weeks or even months for squirrels to discover your den box. Be patient and keep an eye out for signs of activity, such as:

Squirrel tracks around the base

Nesting materials being carried in and out of the den box

Squirrels entering and exiting the den box

Respecting Their Privacy

Once your den box is occupied, it’s important to respect the squirrels’ privacy. Avoid approaching the den box too closely, especially during nesting season (usually from spring to fall). If you see a squirrel enter and exit, give them space!

Keeping an Eye on Things

From a distance, you can still observe your squirrel tenants. A pair of binoculars can be a great way to watch their activities without disturbing them. You can also install a wildlife camera near the den box. This allows you to capture adorable photos and videos of your furry friends!

Providing More Than Just a Home

Your den box is a great start, but you can do even more to attract squirrels to your yard. Here are a few extra tips:

Squirrel-Friendly Food

Squirrels love nuts, seeds, and fruits. You can put out a feeder specifically designed for squirrels, or simply scatter some food on the ground in a safe location. Here are some safe squirrel treats:

Peanuts (in the shell or unsalted)

Sunflower seeds

Acorns

Apples

Corn on the cob

Creating a Safe Environment

Squirrels need a safe place to live. Avoid using pesticides in your yard and provide them with plenty of trees and shrubs for shelter and protection. Keep cats inside, as they can be a threat to squirrels.

The Joy of Sharing Your Backyard with Squirrels

Building a squirrel den box is a rewarding experience. It's a way to connect with nature, provide a safe haven for wildlife, and add a touch of charm to your backyard. So, grab your tools, put on your thinking cap, and get ready to create a cozy home for your furry friends. And don’t forget to enjoy the delightful antics that are sure to unfold!