Squirrel Den Box Plans with Detailed Instructions

Build a Cozy Squirrel Den Box: A Step-by-Step Guide for Backyard Buddies

Hey there, nature lovers! Are you ready to make a super cozy home for the playful squirrels in your backyard? Building a squirrel den box is a fun project that's rewarding for both you and your furry friends. It's a great way to give them a safe space to rest and raise their young. Plus, it's super satisfying to see these little critters enjoying your handiwork. So, let's get our tools ready and build a comfy squirrel den box!

Gathering Your Supplies

Before we get started, let's make sure we've got everything we need. You can find these materials at most hardware stores:

• Wood: Choose sturdy, rot-resistant wood like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber. You'll need a piece of wood for the base and a few pieces for the walls and the roof.
• Screws: You'll need screws long enough to securely fasten the wood pieces together.
• Saw: A circular saw or a handsaw will work great for cutting the wood to size.
• Drill: This is handy for pre-drilling holes to prevent wood splitting when you screw it together.
• Measuring Tape: You'll need this to make sure everything is cut to the right size.
• Pencil: For marking the wood before you cut it.
• Level: Helps ensure that the box is level and stable.
• Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses when working with wood and power tools.
• Optional: You could also consider adding a few extras to your squirrel den:
• Varnish or paint: To help protect the wood from the weather.
• A small piece of metal roofing: To protect the roof from the rain.
• A bird feeder or a suet cage: Place it nearby to attract squirrels to the den box.

Designing Your Squirrel Den Box

Now, let's decide on the dimensions of your squirrel den. These dimensions are a good starting point, but you can adjust them as you like:

• Base: 12 inches wide x 18 inches long.
• Walls: 12 inches high (make sure they are tall enough for a squirrel to stand up comfortably).
• Roof: 12 inches wide x 18 inches long, with a slight overhang to keep rain out.

Step-by-Step Building Instructions

Alright, let's get our hands dirty and build this awesome squirrel den!

1. Cutting the Wood

Grab your wood and measuring tape and start cutting the pieces to the size you determined.

• Cut the base to 12 inches wide by 18 inches long.
• Cut two side walls to 12 inches wide by 12 inches high.
• Cut two end walls to 18 inches wide by 12 inches high.
• Cut the roof to 12 inches wide by 18 inches long.

2. Assembling the Box

Now it's time to put the pieces together. Here's how:

• Place the base on a flat surface.
• Attach the two side walls to the base, making sure the sides are flush with the top edge of the base.
• Attach the two end walls to the base, making sure the ends are flush with the side walls.
• Pre-drill holes in the wood before screwing the pieces together. This will help prevent the wood from splitting.
• Once all the walls are securely attached, flip the box over.
• Center the roof over the box, ensuring the edges extend beyond the walls to create an overhang.
• Securely attach the roof to the box, making sure the roof is sloped slightly to allow water to run off.

3. Adding the Finishing Touches (Optional)

Once the box is built, you can add a few finishing touches to make it extra squirrel-friendly:

• Entry Hole: Cut a round hole in the front wall of the box. The hole should be about 3 inches in diameter, big enough for a squirrel to easily enter but small enough to prevent larger animals from getting in.
• Varnish or Paint: If you're using cedar or redwood, you can leave it natural, but you can varnish or paint the wood to protect it from the elements. Use a non-toxic paint that's safe for animals.
• Metal Roofing: To help keep the roof waterproof, you can attach a small piece of metal roofing to the top of the box.
• Internal Support: To prevent the roof from collapsing, you can add a small piece of wood across the inside of the box, running from one side wall to the other.

Placing Your Squirrel Den Box

Now that your den is ready, it's time to find a cozy spot for your furry friend. Here are some tips:

• Choose a location that offers shelter and privacy. Trees, shrubs, or even a small rock wall can provide a sense of security for the squirrel.
• Make sure the den box is off the ground. Ideally, place it around 10 to 15 feet high in a tree, using sturdy branches or a sturdy metal post for support.
• Consider the direction the entrance hole faces. It's best if the entrance faces away from the prevailing wind and rain.
• Make sure the den box is accessible to squirrels. It's no use building a beautiful den if the squirrels can't find it!

Creating a Squirrel-Friendly Environment

To entice squirrels to use your den box, it's a good idea to make your yard as inviting as possible for these furry friends. Here are a few things you can do:

• Plant native trees and shrubs: They provide food, shelter, and nesting materials for squirrels.
• Provide a source of water: A birdbath or a shallow dish filled with water will help keep squirrels hydrated.
• Offer supplementary food: Squirrel-friendly snacks like sunflower seeds, nuts, and fruits can be a tasty treat for squirrels. Be sure to consult with a local wildlife expert or veterinarian about what types of food are safe to feed your squirrels.

Enjoying Your Squirrel Den Box

With a little creativity and some careful planning, you've built a cozy and inviting squirrel den box. Now, sit back and enjoy watching these playful creatures come and go. Remember, be patient. It might take some time for squirrels to discover their new home, but it's a wonderful way to connect with nature and help support wildlife in your backyard. Happy building!