Building a Squirrel Den Box with These Easy Plans

Want to add a touch of whimsy and wildlife to your backyard? Building a squirrel den box is a fun and rewarding project that can attract these playful creatures to your space. It's a great way to observe their antics up close and contribute to their well-being.

This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, making it easy for even beginner DIYers to build a sturdy and cozy home for their local squirrels. Let's get started!

Materials You'll Need

Before you grab your tools, gather these materials:

• Wood: Choose a rot-resistant wood like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. You'll need approximately 12-16 board feet for a standard den box.
• Screws: Use exterior-grade screws that are long enough to penetrate the wood completely.
• Wood glue: Optional, but recommended for added strength.
• Weatherproof paint or stain: (optional) to protect the wood from the elements.
• Safety gear: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and dust mask when cutting and sanding the wood.
• Tools: You'll need basic woodworking tools like a saw, drill, screwdriver, level, measuring tape, and sandpaper.

Den Box Design and Dimensions

The classic squirrel den box is a rectangular structure with a front entrance hole and an internal chamber for nesting. Here's a typical design:

• Dimensions: 12" wide x 12" deep x 18" high (can be adjusted based on your preferences)
• Entrance hole: 4" in diameter, located about 6 inches from the top of the box
• Roof: Sloped to prevent water accumulation
• Ventilation: Include small holes on the sides or back of the box for air circulation

Step-by-Step Construction

Follow these steps to build your squirrel den box:

1. Cut the Wood

• Cut the wood into the following pieces:
• Two side panels (12" x 18")
• Two back panels (12" x 12")
• One bottom panel (12" x 12")
• One roof panel (12" x 18")
• One front panel (12" x 12")

2. Assemble the Walls

• Attach the side panels to the back panels, using screws or nails. Be sure to keep the panels flush and at right angles.
• Apply wood glue to the joints for added strength, if desired.
• Repeat for the other side.

3. Attach the Bottom

• Screw or nail the bottom panel to the bottom edges of the side panels. Ensure it is level and flush with the side panels.

4. Create the Entrance Hole

• On the front panel, mark the location for the entrance hole. It should be centered and about 6 inches from the top.
• Use a drill to create a pilot hole in the center of the marked area.
• Carefully cut out the entrance hole using a saw or jigsaw. Sand the edges to smooth them.

5. Attach the Front Panel

• Attach the front panel to the front edges of the side panels. Ensure it's flush with the side panels and the entrance hole is aligned.

6. Create the Roof

• Cut two roof support pieces (6" x 18") from the leftover wood. These will be placed inside the box to support the roof.
• Screw or nail the roof support pieces to the inside of the back panels, positioned near the top edges.
• Attach the roof panel to the top edges of the walls, using screws or nails.
• The roof panel should overhang the front panel slightly to create a small overhang.

7. Add Ventilation Holes

• Drill 1-2 small ventilation holes in the back or sides of the box. This allows air to circulate and prevent moisture build-up inside.

8. Finish and Install

• Sand the entire box to smooth any rough edges or splinters.
• Paint or stain the box (optional) with weatherproof paint or stain. Allow the paint to dry completely before installing.
• Choose a location for the den box that's high off the ground, sheltered from the elements, and near trees for easy access.
• Securely attach the den box to the tree or a sturdy post using screws or brackets.

Tips for Attracting Squirrels

Once your den box is built and installed, here are some tips to attract squirrels:

• Offer a food source: Place a squirrel feeder nearby filled with nuts, seeds, or fruits. This will encourage squirrels to visit your area.
• Provide a water source: A shallow dish of fresh water near the den box will be appreciated, especially during hot weather.
• Keep your yard squirrel-friendly: Plant native trees and shrubs that provide natural food sources and nesting materials.
• Be patient: It might take some time for squirrels to discover the den box and make it their home.

Building a squirrel den box is a fun and fulfilling way to support wildlife in your backyard. It's a rewarding project that will bring joy to both you and the squirrels that call it home.