Building a Squirrel Box: A DIY Guide for Your Backyard Buddies
Want to add a touch of wild charm to your backyard? A squirrel box is a fantastic way to attract these playful creatures and provide them with a safe and cozy shelter. This DIY project is perfect for anyone with basic woodworking skills and a love for nature. Let's get started!
Materials You'll Need
Here's what you'll need to gather before you start building your squirrel box:
- Wood: Choose a weather-resistant wood like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. You'll need about 10-12 board feet of lumber for a standard-sized box.
- Screws: Use galvanized or stainless steel screws for durability. You'll need about 20-30 screws of various lengths.
- Drill: A cordless drill with a variety of drill bits is essential.
- Saw: A circular saw or hand saw will be needed to cut the wood.
- Tape measure: For accurate measurements.
- Pencil: For marking the wood.
- Clamps: To secure the wood while you're working.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes while sawing and drilling.
- Optional:
- Staining or painting: To enhance the look and protect the wood.
- Roofing shingles: For a more durable and weather-resistant roof.
- Hardware cloth: For ventilation and to prevent predators from accessing the box.
- Bird feeder or suet cage: To provide food for your furry friends.
Building the Squirrel Box
Now for the fun part - building the squirrel box! Follow these steps carefully:
1. Cut the Wood
Start by cutting the wood to size. Refer to the downloadable blueprint for the exact dimensions. You'll need to cut pieces for:
- Front and Back Panels: Two identical pieces.
- Side Panels: Two identical pieces.
- Bottom Panel: One piece.
- Roof: Two identical pieces (optional: you can use a single piece of plywood for the roof).
- Entrance Hole: Cut a 4-5 inch diameter hole in the front panel for the squirrel's entrance.
2. Assemble the Box
Use screws to secure the front and back panels to the side panels, creating the main box structure. Make sure to use screws long enough to reach through the wood and into the next piece. Next, attach the bottom panel to the base of the box.
Pro Tip: For added strength, you can use wood glue in addition to screws.
3. Add the Roof
There are a few ways to add the roof.
- Option 1: If you're using two separate roof pieces, attach them to the top of the box, creating a slight overhang to help with drainage. Secure them with screws or hinges.
- Option 2: For a more simple roof, use a single piece of plywood and secure it to the top of the box using screws.
Optional: To add a more finished look, you can attach roofing shingles to the roof. This will help to protect the wood from the elements.
4. Add Ventilation
It's crucial to provide adequate ventilation for the squirrels. You can do this by cutting small holes in the back and/or side panels using a drill. Or, you can attach a piece of hardware cloth to the back or bottom of the box for additional ventilation and predator protection.
5. Finishing Touches
If you wish, stain or paint the box to give it a more attractive look and to help preserve the wood. Make sure to choose a non-toxic paint that is safe for wildlife.
6. Installation
Find a suitable location for your squirrel box. Look for a spot that's protected from the elements and predators. Secure the box to a tree using heavy-duty screws or brackets, or attach it to a post or sturdy structure. The box should be placed around 6-10 feet above the ground.
Tips for Attracting Squirrels
Once your squirrel box is installed, there are a few things you can do to attract your furry friends:
- Offer Food: Squirrels love nuts, seeds, and fruits. You can place a bird feeder near the box, or even a small bowl of food on the ground.
- Provide Water: Squirrels need water, just like any other animal. Place a shallow dish of water near the box, especially during hot weather.
- Be Patient: It may take a little while for squirrels to discover your box. Don't get discouraged if you don't see them right away.
- Avoid Disturbances: Try to keep the area around the box quiet and peaceful. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could scare them away.
Enjoy Watching Your New Backyard Residents
Building a squirrel box is a rewarding project that will add a touch of nature to your backyard. You'll have hours of enjoyment watching these curious and entertaining creatures as they come and go from their new home. Plus, you'll be giving them a safe and comfortable place to rest, nest, and raise their young.
Remember, building a squirrel box is a great way to connect with nature and bring some wildlife into your own backyard. Have fun with the project, and enjoy watching the squirrels explore their new home!
