Creative Squirrel Box Building Plans for DIY Enthusiasts

The playful antics of squirrels can bring a touch of joy to any backyard. Watching them scamper, leap, and stash away nuts is a delight for nature lovers. But sometimes, their enthusiastic foraging can lead to unwanted damage to bird feeders, gardens, and even homes. A thoughtful solution is to create a squirrel box, a charming and functional structure that provides these furry creatures with a safe and enjoyable space for their activities. This article offers comprehensive plans for constructing squirrel boxes that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical, inviting you to embark on a rewarding DIY project.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior

Before diving into the construction, it's essential to understand the basic needs and preferences of squirrels. This knowledge will inform the design and placement of your squirrel box, ensuring its success in attracting these charming rodents.

Food Storage and Shelter

Squirrels are highly territorial and will establish a "home range" where they collect and store food. A squirrel box should provide a secure space for caching nuts, seeds, and other goodies. It should also offer protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.

Nest Box Placement

Squirrels prefer nesting in trees, so your squirrel box should be mounted to a sturdy branch or post, preferably at a height of 6 to 10 feet. This elevated position ensures visibility of the surroundings and discourages potential ground-level predators.

Material Selection

For the best results, choose durable and weather-resistant materials like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. These woods are naturally rot-resistant and can withstand the elements, ensuring a long-lasting squirrel box.

Squirrel Box Design Options

There are many different styles and designs for squirrel boxes, each offering unique features and aesthetic appeal. Here are a few popular and practical options:

Classic Squirrel Box

This traditional design is characterized by a simple rectangular shape with a hinged front panel for easy access. The box can be divided into multiple chambers to accommodate different types of food storage and nesting materials. An entry hole should be placed on one of the side walls, typically at a height of 5 to 6 inches from the floor.

Bird Feeder Squirrel Box

This clever design combines a bird feeder with a squirrel box, providing a win-win solution for both species. The bird feeder is mounted above a squirrel box, allowing squirrels to access their own dedicated area while preventing them from interfering with the birds. This design encourages a peaceful coexistence and promotes biodiversity in your backyard.

Squirrel House with Viewing Window

This design offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of squirrels. A large window made of clear acrylic or Plexiglas allows you to observe their activities inside the box. The window should be placed on the front or side wall, providing an unobstructed view of the squirrel's nest and food storage areas.

Squirrel Play Station

For a more interactive experience, you can create a squirrel play station. This design features a series of platforms, ladders, and swings, providing squirrels with plenty of opportunities for exercise and exploration. You can even incorporate a small bird feeder into the design to encourage interactions between squirrels and birds.

Squirrel Box Building Plans

Now let's move on to the practical steps involved in building a squirrel box. These plans provide a detailed guide for constructing a classic squirrel box, but can be adapted to suit your preferred design and desired features.

Materials Needed

Cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine lumber (1x6, 1x8, and 1x10 boards)
Wood screws (2-1/2" and 1-1/4")
Hinges (2)
Latch or lock (optional)
Weather-resistant sealant
Safety goggles and gloves
Saw (circular or jigsaw)
Drill with drill bits
Measuring tape
Pencil
Level

Construction Steps

1. Cut the lumber: Using the dimensions specified in the diagram, cut the lumber to the required sizes. For the base, two 1x10 boards should be cut to a length of 12 inches. Two side panels should be cut to a height of 8 inches and a length of 12 inches. The front and back panels should be cut to a height of 8 inches and a length of 10 inches. The roof should be cut to a length of 12 inches and a width of 12 inches. Cut a 4-inch by 4-inch square opening in the center of the front panel to create the entry hole.

2. Assemble the box: Attach the two base boards side-by-side, using 2-1/2" wood screws. Attach the side panels to the base, ensuring that the top edges are flush with the base boards. Secure the front and back panels to the side panels, ensuring that the bottom edges are flush with the base boards. Use 2-1/2" wood screws to join the panels.

3. Add the roof: Attach the roof to the top of the box, using 2-1/2" wood screws. The roof should overhang the sides and back of the box by at least 1 inch to provide protection from rain and snow. You can create a slight overhang for the front panel by placing the screws about 1 inch from the front edge of the box.

4. Install the hinges: Attach the hinges to the front panel, about 2 inches from the top and bottom edges. Make sure that the hinges are placed on the outside of the box. Attach the corresponding hinge pieces to the back panel, ensuring that they align with the hinges on the front panel.

5. Add a latch or lock (optional): If you want to secure the box, attach a latch or lock to the front panel. This is particularly useful if you want to clean the box or inspect the squirrel's nest.

6. Seal the box: Apply weather-resistant sealant around the edges of the panels and the roof to prevent water damage. Allow the sealant to dry completely before mounting the box.

7. Mount the box: Attach the squirrel box to a sturdy branch or post, ensuring that the box is level and secure. The mounting location should be at a height of 6 to 10 feet, providing adequate visibility and protection from predators. Use heavy-duty screws or bolts for secure mounting.

Tips for Success

Choose a quiet location: Squirrels prefer areas that are relatively free from noise and human activity. Choose a location that offers some privacy and allows squirrels to feel safe and undisturbed.
Provide suitable nesting materials: Place a layer of shredded newspaper, straw, or wood shavings inside the box to create a cozy and comfortable nesting environment. Squirrels will add their own nesting materials, such as leaves and twigs.
Offer a variety of food: Stock the squirrel box with a variety of nuts, seeds, and fruits. Squirrels are omnivores and will enjoy a balanced diet. Avoid giving them processed foods or sugary snacks.
Maintain the box: Clean the squirrel box regularly to remove debris and prevent the buildup of parasites. Replace nesting materials every few months to ensure a hygienic and comfortable environment for the squirrels.
Enjoy your squirrel box: Observe the squirrels using the box and learn about their fascinating behavior. With a little patience, you'll have a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature up close.

Conclusion

Building a squirrel box is a rewarding and fulfilling DIY project that can bring a touch of wildlife wonder to your backyard. By understanding squirrel behavior and following these detailed plans, you can create a comfortable and attractive habitat for these playful creatures. Remember to enjoy the process, celebrate your creativity, and savor the joy of watching squirrels make their new home a delightful part of your natural world.