How to Build a Squirrel Box

Squirrels love scampering among big hardwood trees like elms, oaks and ash. They’ll hunker down in the hollows of these graceful trees or in leaf nests that they build. However, they also enjoy living in more wind-resistant squirrel boxes that you can make yourself. Building a squirrel box is a great family project, and you may even see a squirrel litter eventually inhabiting the new home.

Things You'll Need

  • Pencil and paper
  • 1-inch scrap wood
  • Combination square
  • Saw
  • Hammer
  • Nail set
  • Drill
  • Hinges, if desired
  • 100-grit sandpaper
  • Putty filler
  • Sealer
  • Paintbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sketch out your general plan for the squirrel box. (If you would like to view other detailed plans, visit the websites listed below in the Resources section.)

    • 2

      Consider both the entrance size and the cavity size. The entrance should be at least 3 inches in diameter and 2 inches from the top of the squirrel box. Place this hole next to the side that will be against the tree. The interior size of the box should be at least 6 inches x 6 inches x 20 inches.

    • 3

      Select the type of 1-inch wood you’d like to use. You may choose exterior-grade plywood, but the squirrels can eventually eat their way through it. Do not sand the wood smooth.

    • 4

      Measure and cut the wood to the desired lengths based on your plan. Then build the box with hammer and nails. (You can add hinges to the roof for easier cleaning.) Drill a hole in the bottom of the box to allow moisture to drain away.

    • 5

      Sand away any extremely rough edges and fill holes with putty. Take a paintbrush and apply a sealer to at least the roof for weatherproofing.

    • 6

      Add dry sawdust or leaves to the box interior in order to attract the squirrels. Install the box with aluminum nails about 20 to 30 feet above the ground, on the south side of the tree to avoid the wind.