Build A Squirrel House: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking for a fun and rewarding DIY project? Building a squirrel house is a fantastic way to provide a safe haven for these furry critters while also adding a touch of nature to your backyard. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through each step of the process, from gathering materials to mounting your finished squirrel abode. So, grab your tools, and let's get started!

Why Build a Squirrel House?

Before we dive into the construction, let's talk about why building a squirrel house is a worthwhile endeavor. Squirrels are fascinating creatures, and providing them with a dedicated space can benefit both them and you. For starters, a well-placed squirrel house can help keep squirrels away from areas you'd rather they didn't frequent, such as your bird feeders or garden. By offering them an alternative home, you're essentially saying, "Hey guys, this is your space – enjoy!" This can minimize conflicts and create a more harmonious backyard ecosystem. Squirrels need safe shelter from the elements and predators. A sturdy squirrel house offers protection from harsh weather, such as rain, snow, and strong winds. It also provides a secure spot for them to nest and raise their young, away from the prying eyes of predators like cats, hawks, and owls. Building a squirrel house can be a fun and educational project for the whole family. It's a great way to learn about these animals and their habits while also honing your DIY skills. Plus, watching squirrels move into and use the house you built is incredibly rewarding!

Benefits of Providing Squirrel Habitats

Providing squirrels with a home also offers benefits beyond just keeping them out of your bird feeders. Squirrel houses can contribute to the overall health and biodiversity of your yard. Squirrels play a vital role in seed dispersal. They bury nuts and acorns for later consumption, and some of these nuts get forgotten, eventually sprouting into new trees. By providing a habitat for squirrels, you're indirectly supporting the growth of your local flora. Building a squirrel house is an act of conservation. As natural habitats continue to shrink, providing artificial homes for wildlife becomes increasingly important. It's a small gesture that can make a big difference in the lives of these animals. Observing squirrels in your backyard can be incredibly entertaining. Watching them scurry around, collect food, and interact with each other is a delightful way to connect with nature. A squirrel house provides a focal point for these observations, allowing you to appreciate their antics up close.

Planning Your Squirrel House

Before you start cutting wood, it's essential to have a plan. Consider the type of squirrel house you want to build, its size, and where you'll place it. Different designs cater to different needs and aesthetics, so take some time to explore your options.

Types of Squirrel Houses

There are several types of squirrel houses you can build, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The simplest type is a basic box with an entrance hole. These are easy to construct and provide adequate shelter. However, they may not be the most secure option, as predators can potentially reach inside. Multi-compartment houses offer enhanced security and can accommodate multiple squirrels. These houses have separate nesting chambers, making it harder for predators to access the occupants. They are a great option if you want to encourage a squirrel family to take up residence in your yard. Some squirrel houses are designed to mimic natural tree cavities. These houses often have a more rustic look and blend seamlessly into the environment. They are typically built with a single entrance and a spacious interior, providing a cozy and natural-feeling home for squirrels. Consider a design that includes an escape hatch or multiple exits. This will give squirrels a quick way to flee if a predator approaches. Escape hatches are typically small holes located on the sides or bottom of the house. Think about a squirrel house with a feeder attached. These houses provide both shelter and a convenient food source, making them especially attractive to squirrels. They often feature a hopper or tray where you can place nuts, seeds, or other squirrel-friendly snacks.

Size and Dimensions

The size of your squirrel house will depend on the type of squirrels in your area and how many you want to accommodate. In general, a house that's about 12-18 inches wide, deep, and high is a good starting point. The entrance hole should be around 3 inches in diameter – large enough for a squirrel to enter comfortably but small enough to deter larger animals. If you're building a multi-compartment house, each chamber should be at least 10x10 inches to provide ample space for nesting. A well-sized squirrel house will make the inhabitants feel safer and more comfortable.

Location, Location, Location

The location of your squirrel house is just as important as its design. Place the house in a spot that's sheltered from the elements and away from high-traffic areas. Squirrels prefer locations that are high off the ground, so consider mounting the house on a tree or pole at least 10-15 feet above the ground. Choose a spot that's close to a food source, such as a nut-bearing tree or a bird feeder. This will make your squirrel house even more attractive. Avoid placing the house near areas where predators are likely to frequent, such as near fences or sheds that cats might use as hunting perches. A secure location will help ensure the safety of your squirrel residents.

Gathering Your Materials

Once you have a plan, it's time to gather your materials. Fortunately, building a squirrel house doesn't require a lot of specialized tools or expensive materials. You can often use scrap wood or repurposed materials to save money and reduce waste.

Wood Choices

The best material for a squirrel house is untreated wood, such as cedar, pine, or redwood. These woods are naturally weather-resistant and won't harm the squirrels. Avoid using pressure-treated wood, as the chemicals used in the treatment process can be toxic to animals. Plywood is another option, but it's not as durable as solid wood and may require additional weatherproofing. If you're using plywood, make sure it's exterior-grade and free of formaldehyde. Repurposed wood, such as old fence boards or pallets, can be a great way to build a rustic squirrel house on a budget. Just make sure the wood is clean and free of nails or staples.

Tools You'll Need

To build your squirrel house, you'll need a few basic tools. A saw (hand saw, circular saw, or jigsaw) will be necessary for cutting the wood. A drill with various drill bits will be used for making holes and attaching pieces. A screwdriver (or drill with screwdriver bits) will be needed for assembling the house. You'll also need a measuring tape, a pencil, and a square for accurate measurements and markings. Safety glasses and gloves are essential for protecting yourself while working with power tools. Don't forget sandpaper for smoothing rough edges and preventing splinters.

Additional Supplies

In addition to wood and tools, you'll need some fasteners to hold the house together. Screws are generally preferable to nails, as they provide a stronger and more durable connection. Use exterior-grade screws that won't rust or corrode. You may also want to use wood glue to reinforce the joints. Be sure to use a non-toxic, waterproof wood glue. If you're planning to mount your squirrel house on a tree or pole, you'll need some hardware for attaching it. This might include screws, bolts, brackets, or wire. Consider adding some bedding material to the house to make it more inviting for squirrels. Dry leaves, shredded paper, or wood shavings make excellent nesting material.

Step-by-Step Construction

Now comes the fun part: building your squirrel house! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a cozy home for your backyard critters.

Cutting the Wood

Start by cutting the wood pieces according to your chosen plan. Be precise with your measurements and cuts to ensure that the pieces fit together properly. Use a saw to cut the sides, bottom, top, front, and back of the house. If you're building a multi-compartment house, cut the pieces for the dividers as well. Sand the edges of the wood to remove any splinters or rough spots. This will make the assembly process easier and prevent injuries. Double-check your measurements and cuts before moving on to the next step.

Assembling the House

Begin by attaching the sides to the bottom piece. Use screws and wood glue to create a strong and secure connection. Next, attach the front and back pieces to the sides and bottom. Again, use screws and wood glue for added durability. If you're building a multi-compartment house, install the dividers at this stage. Make sure they are securely attached to the sides, bottom, and back of the house. Attach the top piece to complete the main structure of the squirrel house. Ensure that the top fits snugly and is securely fastened.

Creating the Entrance Hole

Use a drill with a 3-inch hole saw bit to create the entrance hole. The hole should be located near the top of the front piece, about 2-3 inches from the roof. Smooth the edges of the hole with sandpaper to prevent splinters. If you're adding an escape hatch, drill a smaller hole (about 2 inches in diameter) on one of the sides or the bottom of the house.

Adding the Finishing Touches

If desired, you can add a small perch or landing platform below the entrance hole. This will give squirrels a place to sit and survey their surroundings before entering the house. Attach the perch using screws and wood glue. Consider adding a roof overhang to protect the entrance hole from rain and snow. This can be as simple as extending the top piece of wood a few inches beyond the front of the house. Apply a non-toxic, waterproof sealant to the exterior of the house to protect it from the elements. This will help prolong the life of your squirrel house. Allow the sealant to dry completely before mounting the house.

Mounting Your Squirrel House

With your squirrel house fully assembled, it's time to mount it in your chosen location. Proper mounting is essential for the stability and security of the house.

Mounting Options

You can mount your squirrel house on a tree, a pole, or even the side of a building. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Mounting the house on a tree is a natural choice, as it mimics the squirrels' natural habitat. Use screws or bolts to attach the house to the tree trunk. Be careful not to damage the tree by overtightening the fasteners. Mounting the house on a pole is a good option if you don't have suitable trees in your yard. You can use a metal or wooden pole and attach the house using brackets or screws. Make sure the pole is securely anchored in the ground. Mounting the house on the side of a building is another possibility, especially if you have a shed or garage in your backyard. Use screws or bolts to attach the house to the wall. Ensure that the wall is sturdy enough to support the weight of the house.

Securing the House

Regardless of your mounting method, it's essential to secure the house properly to prevent it from falling or being blown down by strong winds. Use sturdy hardware that can withstand the elements. Check the mounting hardware periodically to ensure it's still secure. If necessary, tighten or replace any loose or damaged fasteners. Consider using wire or rope as an additional safety measure. Wrap the wire or rope around the house and the mounting structure to provide extra support.

Adding Bedding

Once the house is securely mounted, add some bedding material to make it more inviting for squirrels. Dry leaves, shredded paper, or wood shavings make excellent nesting material. Place a generous amount of bedding inside the house, filling it about halfway. You can also add some nuts or seeds to the house to entice squirrels to move in. Check the bedding periodically and replace it as needed. A clean and comfortable squirrel house will be more attractive to residents.

Maintaining Your Squirrel House

To keep your squirrel house in good condition, it's important to perform some regular maintenance. This will help ensure that it remains a safe and comfortable home for squirrels for years to come.

Cleaning the House

Clean the squirrel house at least once a year, preferably in the late winter or early spring before nesting season begins. Remove any old bedding material and debris from the house. Use a brush or scraper to clean the interior walls and floor. If necessary, you can wash the house with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow the house to dry completely before adding fresh bedding. Wear gloves when cleaning the house to protect yourself from parasites or diseases.

Repairs and Upgrades

Inspect the squirrel house regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose boards, or leaks. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening. Replace any rotted or damaged wood with new material. If the roof is leaking, consider adding a new layer of roofing material or applying a waterproof sealant. You can also add upgrades to your squirrel house, such as a new entrance hole, an escape hatch, or a feeding station. These additions can make the house even more attractive to squirrels.

Discouraging Unwanted Guests

Sometimes, other animals, such as birds or insects, may try to move into your squirrel house. If this happens, you may need to take steps to discourage them. If birds are nesting in the house, wait until they have finished nesting before cleaning it out. You can also try blocking the entrance hole temporarily to prevent them from returning. If insects are a problem, you can try using a non-toxic insect repellent. Avoid using pesticides, as they can harm squirrels and other wildlife.

Conclusion

Building a squirrel house is a rewarding project that can benefit both you and your backyard critters. By following these steps, you can create a safe and comfortable home for squirrels, while also adding a touch of nature to your outdoor space. So, grab your tools, gather your materials, and get ready to build a squirrel paradise! Happy building, guys! You'll be amazed at how much you enjoy watching these little guys make your creation their home. Remember, a little effort can go a long way in supporting local wildlife and creating a thriving backyard ecosystem. Now get out there and build something awesome! 🐿️🏠