DIY Squirrel Den Box Plans with Photos

Building a Squirrel Den Box: A DIY Guide with Photos

Have you ever watched a squirrel scampering around your yard and wished you could give it a little extra help? Well, you can! Building a squirrel den box is a fun and rewarding project, and it's a great way to attract these adorable creatures to your property. Plus, it's a great way to learn a new skill and get your hands dirty.

So, grab your tools, gather your materials, and let's get started!

Why Build a Squirrel Den Box?

Before we jump into the building process, let's talk about why you might want to build a squirrel den box in the first place. Here are a few reasons:

• Provide Shelter and Security: Squirrels are constantly on the lookout for predators, and having a safe and secure place to nest is essential. A den box offers a much-needed refuge from the elements and potential dangers.
• Encourage a Healthy Population: By providing shelter, you can help support a healthy squirrel population in your area. This can be especially important in urban areas where natural tree cavities are scarce.
• Observe Their Behavior: Watching squirrels go about their daily lives is a fascinating experience. A den box can provide you with a front-row seat to their antics.
• Add a Touch of Charm to Your Yard: A well-placed squirrel den box can add a touch of whimsy and wildlife to your outdoor space.

Materials You'll Need:

You'll need a few basic materials to get started:

• Wood: Use untreated, weather-resistant wood like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. A 1x6 board is a good starting point for the main structure.
• Screws: Use exterior-grade screws that are long enough to penetrate the wood completely.
• Saw: You'll need a saw to cut the wood to size. A circular saw or a jigsaw is ideal.
• Drill: A drill will be used to pre-drill holes before screwing the wood together.
• Measuring Tape: You'll need a measuring tape for accurate cuts.
• Level: Ensure the den box is level before you attach it to the tree.
• Optional: You may also want to use a roofing shingle, some wood glue, and a sealant to help weatherproof your den box.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Now, let's get into the construction process:

Step 1: Cut the Wood

Start by cutting the wood to the following dimensions:

• Front Panel: 12 inches wide x 10 inches tall
• Back Panel: 12 inches wide x 10 inches tall
• Side Panels: 8 inches wide x 10 inches tall (you'll need two of these)
• Bottom Panel: 12 inches wide x 8 inches tall
• Roof: 14 inches wide x 12 inches tall
• Entrance Panel: 5 inches wide x 3 inches tall (This is the opening for the squirrel to enter)

Remember to account for the thickness of the wood when making your cuts. For example, if your wood is 1 inch thick, add 1 inch to the width of the roof and bottom panels to allow for the overlap.

Step 2: Assemble the Main Structure

Now, let's build the main structure of the den box:

1. Attach the Side Panels: Use screws to attach the side panels to the front and back panels. Make sure the panels are flush and square.
2. Attach the Bottom Panel: Screw the bottom panel to the bottom of the side and front panels.

You should now have a basic box shape.

Step 3: Cut and Attach the Entrance Panel

Now, let's create the entrance hole. This is where you can get a little creative.

• Cut the Entrance: Cut a 5-inch-wide by 3-inch-tall rectangle out of one of the front panels to create the entrance hole. You may want to use a drill to create a starting point for your jigsaw and prevent the wood from splintering.
• Attach the Entrance Panel: Screw the entrance panel to the inside of the front panel to cover the entrance hole. This will provide added security for the squirrels. You may need to use screws that are slightly longer to go through the entrance panel and into the front panel.

Step 4: Create the Roof

Now, we'll construct the roof:

1. Attach a Roofing Shingle: If desired, attach a roofing shingle to the bottom side of the roof panel. This will help to weatherproof the den box. You can also apply wood glue for extra adhesion.
2. Attach the Roof: Screw the roof panel to the top of the main box structure, making sure it overhangs slightly to protect the entrance from rain.

You may need to adjust the length of your screws, based on the thickness of your roof panel and the main structure.

Step 5: Weatherproofing and Finishing Touches

Now, it's time to give your den box a little TLC to help it last longer.

• Seal the Joints: Use a sealant to seal any gaps or cracks in the den box to help prevent moisture from seeping in.
• Paint or Stain: For a more polished look, you can paint or stain the den box. Choose a color that will blend in with the surroundings, or let your creativity run wild!

Choosing the Right Location

Now that your den box is complete, you need to pick the perfect spot in your yard to install it. Here are some tips for choosing the right location:

• Secure Location: Choose a tree that is strong and sturdy enough to support the weight of the den box.
• Height: The den box should be at least 6 feet off the ground to protect the squirrels from predators.
• Sun and Shade: Look for a location that offers a mix of sun and shade.
• Access to Food and Water: Ideally, the den box should be near a source of food and water, such as a bird feeder or a water dish.

Installing the Den Box

Once you've chosen the perfect spot, it's time to install your den box.

1. Attach to Tree: You can use wire, zip ties, or a bracket to secure the den box to the tree. Make sure the attachment is strong enough to withstand the wind and squirrels.
2. Check for Stability: Once the den box is attached, give it a gentle tug to make sure it is secure.

Tips for Attracting Squirrels

You've built the perfect den box, but how do you get squirrels to actually move in? Here are a few tricks:

• Provide Food: Offer squirrels food like sunflower seeds, peanuts, and nuts. You can put a feeder nearby or scatter some food on the ground.
• Be Patient: It may take some time for squirrels to discover the den box. Don't give up!
• Keep it Clean: Regularly clean the den box to remove debris and maintain a healthy environment.

Enjoy Your New Wildlife Neighbors!

That's it! You've built a squirrel den box and created a safe and cozy home for your furry friends. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Remember to be patient and have fun with your new backyard project!