Building Your First Squirrel Box: Free Plans

Hey there, fellow nature enthusiast! Are you tired of watching squirrels scamper around your yard, looking for a safe place to stash their treasures? Well, you're in luck! Today, we're going to build a cozy squirrel box, a haven for those furry little acrobats.

Building a squirrel box is a fun and rewarding project, and it's a great way to add a touch of whimsy to your backyard. Plus, you'll be providing a much-needed home for these adorable creatures. Let's get started!

Choosing the Right Location

Before you even think about grabbing your hammer and nails, you need to pick the perfect spot for your squirrel box. Squirrels are smart and cautious, so they'll be looking for a location that's safe, secure, and offers a good view of their surroundings.

Here are some factors to consider:

• Tree Selection: Choose a healthy, mature tree with sturdy branches that can support the weight of the box. Avoid trees that are near busy roads, power lines, or areas where there's a lot of foot traffic.
• Height: Ideally, you want to mount the box at least 10 feet above the ground. This will help to deter predators and give the squirrels a sense of security.
• Sunlight: Find a spot that receives plenty of sunlight, especially in the morning. This will help to keep the box warm and dry.
• Accessibility: Make sure you have access to the spot where you want to mount the box, especially if you'll need to clean it or refill the food.

Once you've chosen the ideal location, it's time to gather your materials and get ready to build!

Materials You'll Need

Don't worry, you won't need a whole lumberyard to build this squirrel box. We're keeping it simple and budget-friendly.

• Wood: You'll need about 16 square feet of untreated, weather-resistant wood, like cedar or redwood. You can find this at most home improvement stores. This will be used to build the box, roof, and entrance panel.
• Screws: Get a variety of sizes, ranging from 1-inch to 2-inch screws, to secure the wood together. You can use either wood screws or galvanized screws for durability.
• Brackets: You'll need four strong brackets to attach the box to the tree. They should be made of metal and designed for outdoor use. Choose brackets that are large enough to support the weight of the box.
• Drill: You'll need a power drill to make pilot holes for the screws and to make the entrance hole for the squirrels.
• Saw: A handsaw or circular saw will help you cut the wood to size. You may also need a jigsaw for some curved cuts.
• Safety Gear: Always wear safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask when working with power tools and wood.
• Optional: If you want to paint your squirrel box, choose a non-toxic paint that's safe for wildlife. You can also add a small bird feeder to the side of the box, to provide a convenient source of food for your furry friends.

Building the Squirrel Box: Step-by-Step

Okay, now comes the fun part â€" putting your squirrel box together! Here's a breakdown of the steps:

Step 1: Building the Box

1. Cut four pieces of wood to the desired size for the sides of the box. For example, you could make each side 12 inches long and 10 inches high.
2. Screw the sides together using wood glue and your screws to form a rectangular box.
3. Cut a piece of wood for the bottom of the box and attach it to the sides using screws and glue.

Step 2: Creating the Roof

1. Cut two pieces of wood to the same length as the sides of the box and about 8 inches wide. These will form the two sides of the roof.
2. Cut another piece of wood to the same length as the sides of the box and the same width as the sides of the roof. This will form the back of the roof.
3. Cut another piece of wood to the same length as the sides of the box, but with a width that is slightly less than the width of the roof sides. This will form the front of the roof.
4. Attach the roof sides to the front and back of the roof using screws and glue. Be sure to create a slight overhang for the front of the roof to help protect the squirrels from rain.
5. Attach the roof to the box using hinges. This will allow the roof to be opened for easy cleaning and inspection.

Step 3: Making the Entrance

1. On one of the sides of the box, cut a circular opening with a diameter of about 3 inches. This will be the entrance for the squirrels.
2. To make the entrance a bit more appealing to squirrels, you can cut a small piece of wood (about 1 inch wide and 3 inches long) that fits perfectly in the opening. Use screws and glue to attach the wood to the inside of the box, forming a ledge for the squirrels to stand on. This ledge will also help to prevent rain from getting into the box.

Step 4: Adding Finishing Touches (Optional)

1. If you choose to paint your squirrel box, now's the time to do it. Apply a few coats of non-toxic paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Let the paint dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
2. You can also add a small bird feeder to the side of the box for your squirrel visitors. Just attach it securely using screws or brackets.

Mounting the Squirrel Box

You're almost there! Now it's time to give your squirrel box a permanent home.

1. Select a sturdy branch on the tree you chose, making sure it's at least 10 feet above the ground.
2. Attach the brackets to the chosen branch using screws and a drill. Make sure they are securely fastened to the branch.
3. Attach the squirrel box to the brackets using screws and a drill. Make sure the box is level and secure. Be careful not to overtighten the screws as this can damage the wood.

Tips for Attracting Squirrels

You've built the perfect squirrel box, now it's time to make it a welcoming haven. Here are a few tips to attract those furry acrobats:

• Provide Food and Water: Place a bird feeder near the box, but away from the entrance. Squirrels love seeds, nuts, and fruit. You can also offer a small dish of fresh water.
• Keep it Clean: Regularly check the box for signs of damage or nesting materials that need to be removed. This will encourage squirrels to use the box.
• Patience is Key: It may take some time for squirrels to discover your new box and decide to make it their home. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't happen overnight!

Enjoy Watching Your New Squirrel Tenants!

Congratulations! You've now built your very own squirrel box and are ready to welcome your furry friends. Remember, building a squirrel box is not just about creating a home for these playful creatures; it's also about enriching your backyard and creating a connection with nature. So sit back, relax, and enjoy watching the squirrels enjoy their new abode!

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