Easy-to-Follow PDF Plans for a DIY Squirrel Box

Build Your Own Squirrel Box: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hey there, fellow nature enthusiast! Are you tired of those pesky squirrels raiding your bird feeders? Or maybe you just want to provide a safe and cozy home for these adorable little creatures. Well, you're in luck! In this easy-to-follow guide, we'll walk you through building your own squirrel box, a project that's perfect for both beginners and seasoned DIYers.

Building a squirrel box is a rewarding experience. Not only will you create a unique and beautiful addition to your backyard, but you'll also be helping out these furry friends by providing them with a safe and comfortable space to rest, nest, and raise their young.

What You'll Need:

Before we dive into the building process, let's gather all the materials you'll need. Don't worry, it's a pretty straightforward list:

• 1x6 lumber (pine or cedar): About 8 feet long. This will be the main material for the box itself.
• 1x4 lumber (pine or cedar): A couple of feet long. This will be used for the roof supports.
• 1/4-inch plywood: A piece about 12x12 inches. This will be for the roof.
• Wood screws: 1-1/4 inch and 2-inch length. These will be used for assembling the box and attaching the roof.
• Wood glue: This will provide extra strength to your construction.
• Weatherproof paint or stain (optional): To protect your squirrel box from the elements.
• Heavy-duty wire or metal mesh: This will be used to create a vent for the box. You'll need a piece about 12 inches long.
• Measuring tape and pencil: For accurate cutting.
• Saw (circular, jigsaw, or hand saw): For cutting the wood to size.
• Drill: To pre-drill holes for screws and to create the vent holes.
• Safety goggles and gloves: Always wear safety gear when working with power tools.

Building the Squirrel Box: Step-by-Step

Now that you have all your materials ready, let's start building your squirrel box. Follow these simple steps, and you'll be ready to welcome your new furry tenants in no time:

Step 1: Cut the Wood

1. Using your saw, cut two pieces of 1x6 lumber to 12 inches in length. These will form the front and back walls of your squirrel box.
2. Cut two more pieces of 1x6 lumber to 10 inches in length. These will be the side walls.
3. Cut two pieces of 1x4 lumber to 12 inches in length. These will be the roof supports.
4. Cut a piece of 1/4-inch plywood to 12x12 inches. This will be the roof.

Step 2: Assemble the Box

1. Lay one of the 12-inch 1x6 boards (front wall) flat on a workbench.
2. Place one of the 10-inch 1x6 boards (side wall) perpendicular to the front wall, ensuring the edges line up.
3. Apply wood glue to the joint and secure it with three 1-1/4-inch screws.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the other side wall. Now you have the front, back, and one side wall assembled.
5. Add the remaining 12-inch 1x6 board (back wall) to complete the box. Secure it with glue and screws like before.

Step 3: Create the Roof Supports

1. Place the two 1x4 lumber pieces (roof supports) parallel to each other, about 1-1/2 inches apart. The supports should be centered on the top of the box, spanning the entire width.
2. Secure the supports to the box using 2-inch wood screws. Ensure they are firmly attached and that the space between them is uniform.

Step 4: Attach the Roof

1. Place the plywood roof on top of the roof supports. Make sure it overhangs the sides of the box slightly to create an eave.
2. Secure the roof to the supports using several 2-inch wood screws, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add the Vent

1. Use a drill to create two holes near the top of the back wall of the box. These holes will serve as ventilation for the squirrel box.
2. You can also use a piece of heavy-duty wire or metal mesh to create a larger vent, creating an opening about 2 inches in diameter near the top back of the box.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

1. Apply weatherproof paint or stain to the box (optional). This will help protect the wood from the elements and enhance the appearance.
2. Let the paint or stain dry completely before placing the squirrel box in your desired location.

Choosing the Perfect Location

Now that your squirrel box is ready, let's find the perfect spot for it in your backyard. Here are some factors to consider:

• Height: Mount the squirrel box at least 6 feet above the ground, out of reach of predators like cats and dogs.
• Protection: Choose a location that offers some protection from the elements, such as the shade of a tree or the shelter of a porch.
• Access: Make sure the squirrel box is easy for squirrels to access. Choose a spot with nearby branches or a tree trunk that they can use to climb onto the box.
• Privacy: Keep the box away from high-traffic areas or places where people frequently gather. Squirrels prefer a quiet and secluded spot to raise their young.

Tips for a Happy Squirrel Family

• Make it comfy: Line the inside of the squirrel box with soft bedding material like shredded paper, straw, or leaves. This will provide comfort and warmth for the squirrels.
• Provide a food source: While squirrels are capable of finding their own food, you can offer them a supplemental food source near the box. Consider offering nuts, seeds, or fruits.
• Clean regularly: Inspect and clean the squirrel box at least once a year, especially after the nesting season. Remove any debris or old bedding.

Enjoy Watching the Squirrels!

Congratulations! You've now successfully built a squirrel box that's sure to attract these playful creatures. Remember, patience is key. It may take a while for squirrels to discover your new box, but once they do, you'll be able to enjoy watching them interact with their new home. Happy building!