0 Best Practices for Building a Squirrel Den Box

Building a Squirrel Den Box: A Guide for Nature Lovers

Watching squirrels scamper through the trees and gather nuts is a delightful part of nature's everyday show. But did you know that you can provide a safe and cozy haven for these furry acrobats by building a squirrel den box? Not only will it be a delightful project, but it's also a rewarding way to contribute to the well-being of these charming creatures. Let's dive into the best practices for building a squirrel den box that will be a welcome addition to your backyard.

Choosing the Right Materials

The heart of a squirrel den box is its construction. You want a material that's sturdy, weather-resistant, and safe for your furry tenant. Here's what to consider:

Wood Choices

Cedar: A classic choice due to its durability, natural insect-repellent qualities, and pleasant aroma. It's also a relatively lightweight wood, making it easier to work with.

Redwood: Another top contender for its longevity, water resistance, and beautiful reddish-brown color. It's also resistant to rot and decay.

Pine: An affordable and readily available option. While not as durable as cedar or redwood, pine can still work well if treated properly with a water-resistant sealant.

Pressure-Treated Wood: Avoid using pressure-treated wood. It's often treated with chemicals that could be harmful to squirrels.

Other Materials

You'll also need a few other materials to complete your squirrel den box:

Screws: Use exterior-grade screws that are rust-resistant.

Wood glue: Helps create strong, lasting bonds between wood pieces.

Water-resistant sealant: Protect the wood from moisture and elements, especially if using pine.

Metal flashing: For the roof, helps direct water away from the box.

Designing the Perfect Den Box

The dimensions and design of your squirrel den box play a crucial role in attracting and accommodating squirrels. Here's a general outline to follow:

Size Matters

Aim for a den box that's spacious enough for a squirrel to move comfortably, but not too large that it becomes difficult to heat. A good starting point is:

• Width: 8-10 inches
• Height: 10-12 inches
• Depth: 12-14 inches

The Entry Hole

The size of the entry hole is crucial. You want to make sure it's large enough for a squirrel to enter easily, but small enough to deter larger predators. A good rule of thumb is:

• Diameter: 3-4 inches

Position the entry hole on the side of the box, approximately 6-8 inches from the bottom. This helps protect the squirrel from predators while allowing for drainage.

Ventilation

Squirrels need ventilation to prevent mold and mildew buildup. You can add a few small holes at the top or bottom of the box to allow for air circulation. Be sure to cover these holes with wire mesh to prevent squirrels from escaping and predators from entering.

Roof

A durable roof is essential to shield the squirrel from the elements. Consider using a single piece of wood or plywood that overhangs the sides of the box by at least an inch to provide extra protection.

Landing Platform

Adding a small landing platform below the entry hole is a thoughtful touch. It gives squirrels a place to rest their feet before entering the box. You can use a small piece of wood or a sturdy branch for this purpose.

Building Your Squirrel Den Box

Now, it's time to bring your design to life! Follow these step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Cutting the Wood

Using a saw, cut your chosen wood into the following pieces:

• Two side panels: 10 inches high by 12 inches wide
• One back panel: 10 inches high by 12 inches wide
• One front panel: 10 inches high by 8 inches wide (leaving a 4-inch gap for the entry hole)
• One roof panel: 12 inches wide by 14 inches long (or larger to create an overhang)
• One bottom panel: 12 inches wide by 12 inches long
• One landing platform (optional): 6 inches wide by 6 inches long

Step 2: Assembling the Box

Now, it's time to piece together your den box:

1. Attach the bottom panel: Place the bottom panel on a flat surface and attach the two side panels and back panel to it using screws and wood glue.
2. Cut the entry hole: In the front panel, cut out a 3-4 inch diameter hole for the entry.
3. Attach the front panel: Align the front panel with the bottom panel, ensuring the entry hole is positioned correctly. Secure it using screws and wood glue.
4. Secure the landing platform: If you are using a landing platform, attach it to the bottom of the entry hole, positioned just below the opening.
5. Attach the roof: Position the roof panel on top of the box, making sure it overhangs the sides by at least an inch. Secure the roof using screws and wood glue.

Step 3: Adding Finishing Touches

Once the box is assembled, you can add a few finishing touches to make it extra special:

• Seal the wood: Apply a water-resistant sealant to all surfaces of the box to protect it from moisture and the elements.
• Install metal flashing: Place a piece of metal flashing along the edges of the roof, helping to direct water away from the box.
• Paint or stain (optional): You can paint or stain the box with a natural-colored paint or stain to blend it with the surroundings.

Setting Up the Squirrel Den Box

Now that your squirrel den box is complete, let's make it a welcoming home for your furry friend:

Location, Location, Location

Choose a location that offers:

• Protection from the elements: Mount the box on a tree trunk, a sturdy post, or against a building wall for shelter from rain, wind, and sun.
• Privacy: Position it in a spot that provides cover from predators, such as a dense bush or thick foliage.
• Access to food and water: Locate it near a good food source, like a bird feeder or a nut-bearing tree, and ensure it is near a water source.

Making it Inviting

You can make your squirrel den box even more attractive by:

• Adding bedding material: Place a small amount of soft bedding material like shredded paper, cloth scraps, or dried leaves inside the box.
• Offering a small snack: Place a few nuts, seeds, or berries inside the box to entice squirrels to investigate.
• Be patient: It may take some time for squirrels to discover and accept your den box, so be patient and persistent.

Enjoying Your Squirrel Den Box

Once squirrels start using your den box, you'll have a front-row seat to their daily routines. You can observe their playful antics, watch them gather nuts, and even catch glimpses of their adorable babies. Building a squirrel den box is a rewarding experience that brings joy and adds a touch of wild charm to your backyard.