Quick Squirrel Box Plans with Easy Instructions

Build a Squirrel Box: Simple Plans for Feeding Our Furry Friends

Want to bring a little joy to your backyard and watch adorable squirrels scamper around? Building a squirrel box is a fun and rewarding project! It's a simple way to provide food for these clever creatures during the colder months or just to add some entertainment to your outdoor space.

You don't need to be a master carpenter to build a squirrel box. With a few basic tools and some readily available materials, you can create a cozy feeding station for your neighborhood squirrels. I'll walk you through the process step-by-step, making sure it's easy to follow. So grab your toolbox and let's get started!

Choosing the Right Materials

The first step is to gather your materials. You'll need:

• Wood: Use untreated pine, cedar, or redwood. These woods resist rot and are naturally durable. You can use pre-cut lumber boards or cut your own from larger pieces. Aim for boards that are about 1/2 inch thick.
• Screws: Wood screws that are long enough to securely fasten the pieces together. Look for screws that are at least 1 1/2 inches long. You'll probably need about 20-30 screws depending on the size of your squirrel box.
• Optional: A metal roof flashing to protect the top of the box from the elements. You can also use a piece of plywood or roofing shingles.

Cutting the Wood for Your Squirrel Box

Now, let's break down the cutting list for the box. These are the basic dimensions, but feel free to adjust them slightly if you want to make a bigger or smaller squirrel box.

• Front Panel: 6 inches wide x 8 inches high
• Back Panel: 6 inches wide x 8 inches high
• Sides (2): 6 inches wide x 6 inches high
• Bottom: 6 inches wide x 8 inches long
• Roof: 8 inches wide x 10 inches long

Use a saw to cut the wood to these measurements. Don't worry about making perfect cuts; a little bit of variation won't affect the functionality of the box.

Assembling Your Squirrel Box

Now comes the fun part! Time to build your box.

1. Assemble the Sides: Start by attaching the two side pieces to the front panel. Use screws to fasten them together, making sure the seams are flush and the edges are aligned. Repeat this on the other side with the back panel.
2. Add the Bottom: Attach the bottom piece to the front, back, and side panels. Make sure it's securely fastened.
3. Attach the Roof: Now you need to attach the roof. There are a couple of options:
   1. Hinged Roof: You can create a hinged roof by attaching a small piece of wood to the back of the roof as a hinge. This allows you to easily open the roof to refill the box. Use a screw or two to attach the hinge to the roof, leaving space for the roof to open.
   2. Removable Roof: You can simply attach the roof to the top of the box using screws. Make sure to place the screws along the bottom edge of the roof so they don't interfere with filling the box.
4. Add a Feeding Hole: Cut a hole in the front panel for squirrels to access the food. Make sure the hole is large enough for squirrels to reach in and grab food, but not so big that they can get their entire head inside the box. About 3 inches wide and 2 inches tall works well.
5. Add a Perching Branch: To make your squirrel box even more inviting, attach a small branch to the front or side. Squirrels will use this as a perch while they enjoy their snacks. You can use a sturdy branch from your yard, or purchase a pre-made perch from a hardware store.

Finishing Touches and Placement

You've built a fantastic squirrel box! Here's how to give it a final touch and find the perfect spot for it:

1. Sand the edges: Sand the edges of the wood to make them smooth and prevent splinters. This will help protect the squirrels.
2. Paint or Stain: (Optional) You can paint or stain the box to protect it from the elements and add a decorative touch. Choose a weather-resistant paint or stain.
3. Find the Perfect Spot: Choose a location that provides shelter from the elements. Position the squirrel box near a tree or bush, so the squirrels have a safe route to reach it. Hang it high enough off the ground to deter cats and other predators.

What to Feed Your Squirrels

Now it's time to fill your squirrel box! Here are some squirrel-friendly snacks:

• Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, almonds, and peanuts are all great choices. Avoid salted or flavored nuts.
• Seeds: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and safflower seeds are popular squirrel treats.
• Fruits: Apples, pears, and bananas are good options, but make sure they are cut into smaller pieces.
• Suet: Suet is a high-energy food made from beef fat. It's especially helpful during the winter months.

Remember to always avoid giving squirrels processed foods, sugary snacks, or anything that could be harmful to them.

Enjoy Watching Your New Friends

Once you've installed your squirrel box and filled it with delicious treats, relax and enjoy watching your furry friends. Squirrels are fascinating creatures, and you're sure to find their antics entertaining.

Building a squirrel box is a wonderful way to connect with nature and bring a little bit of wildness to your backyard. It's a simple project that anyone can do, and the rewards are endless!

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