How to build a simple squirrel house: 14 steps to construct a compact squirrel cage.

If you're looking for a way to build a shelter for squirrels to prevent them from damaging your garden or disturbing bird nests, a dedicated squirrel home is a very effective solution. With a stable place to hide, squirrels tend to stay in their designated area instead of roaming the garden. This article will help you quickly understand the benefits of building a squirrel home, and guide you through a simple, easy-to-build process suitable for your specific conditions. With just a few basic materials, you can create a safe, clean shelter for your squirrels while still protecting your garden.

Method 1: Instructions for building a simple wooden squirrel house

Step 1: Prepare the tools for building a squirrel's nest.

To begin a simple woodworking project like building a squirrel house , you only need a few basic tools. Having everything ready from the start will make the construction process faster, neater, and safer.

Main tools needed

• Saw the wood; a jigsaw would make the operation more convenient and the cut more precise.

• Use a power screwdriver or electric screwdriver to securely fasten the wooden panels.

• Screws for woodworking (approximately 30–40 pieces).

• If you don't have a power screwdriver, you can use a hammer and nails, but screws will still make the squirrel house more secure and durable.

Additional supporting equipment should be prepared.

• A measuring tape is used to accurately measure the dimensions of each piece of wood.

• Pencils and sticky notes are used to mark and sketch the shape of the house.

• A basic first-aid kit for quickly treating scratches when working with wood.

• Sandpaper can be used to smooth the edges, preventing scratches and making the squirrel's home safer.

Step 2: Prepare the wooden planks to build a house for the squirrel.

At this step, you just need to choose pieces of wood that are sturdy enough and suitable for the basic dimensions of a squirrel house. Recycled wood or scraps will work, as long as they are still hard and not rotten.

What type of wood should be used?

• Pine wood, mixed wood, or leftover wood from previous projects are all suitable.

• Plywood can be used outdoors, but note that it is more susceptible to damage from squirrels than solid wood.

Reference wood dimensions

• Two pieces of wood approximately 12 x 12 inches (or larger) to make the floor, roof, and roof overhang.

• Two pieces of wood, approximately 35 x 6 inches, to make the house frame.

• If there are large squirrels in the area, such as red squirrels or gray squirrels, choose a wooden board that is 6 to 10 inches wide to give them more comfortable space.

Suggestions that are flexible and based on reality.

• You don't need to adhere to the exact measurements above.

• Just make sure you have enough wood to create a sturdy structure and that it's the right size for the type of squirrels commonly found around the house.

Step 3: Create two wooden panels for the front and back of the squirrel house.

To make the squirrel house durable and provide good rain protection, the roof needs to extend slightly. Therefore, the front plank should be about 1 inch shorter than the back plank to create a natural slope for the roof.

How to measure and mark dimensions

• Use a tape measure to measure 18 inches for the back panel and 17 inches for the front panel.

• Use a pencil to draw clear, continuous straight lines on the wood surface to make cutting easier.

• Make sure the line isn't curved, as the precise cut depends on this step.

How to cut wood correctly

• Use a saw and cut along the marked lines.

• Saw slowly and steadily to create a smooth cut without chipping the edges.

• Avoid cutting too quickly, as this can easily cause the wood to crack or deviate from the desired size.

Note the appropriate size for squirrels.

• This is the standard size for a common squirrel house .

• You can make it smaller if you want, but you shouldn't make it larger because squirrels prefer warm, compact, and enclosed spaces.

Step 4: Create two wooden planks to make the side walls of the squirrel's house.

The two side panels need to perfectly match the dimensions of the front and back panels. The more challenging part is cutting the top edge along the slope to give the roof a natural incline.

How to measure and mark dimensions

• Place the piece of wood flat and measure 18 inches on one side and 17 inches on the opposite side.

• Use a pencil to clearly mark these two points.

• Using a ruler, connect the 18-inch and 17-inch points with a straight, even line, without any curves.

How to properly cut a sloping edge.

• Use the saw to cut along the marked line, always maintaining a slow and steady motion to ensure a clean, non-chipping cut.

• After cutting, the top edge of each piece of wood will form an angle that allows the roof to fit snugly.

Check the fit between the wooden panels.

• Place the two side panels at the front and back to check for alignment.

• Once all the edges fit together, you have the basic frame ready for assembly.

Step 5: Create an entrance to the squirrel's house.

The door is what allows squirrels to easily enter and take shelter, while also preventing other animals from entering. The correct size will ensure the squirrel's home is functional and safe.

How to locate the door

• Choose a pre-cut side panel.

• Starting from the 18-inch long side, measure down approximately 3 inches and mark this point.

• This will be the center point where you drill holes for the door.

How to create a door opening of the correct size

• Use a drill or saw to create a circle with a diameter of approximately 3 inches.

• It doesn't need to be exactly 3 inches, but it should be close to that size so the squirrel can fit through without it being too loose.

Important note regarding door dimensions.

• If the opening is too large, other animals like opossums could crawl in and take up the space.

• A hole about 3 inches in diameter is the right size for most common squirrels found around the house.

Step 6: Assemble the wooden walls of the squirrel house.

Once you have the front, back, and two side panels, you can begin assembling the frame. Test fit each panel in place first to check for proper alignment before securing it. Taking your time will help make the frame stronger and more durable.

How to test and check the frame

• Use your hands to hold the wooden panels in place: front – back – two side panels.

• Check that the 17-inch and 18-inch edges are aligned.

• Once the overall shape is satisfactory, you can begin screwing or nailing.

The correct order for installing walls.

1. Attach the front panel (17 inches) to a side panel.

   • Place the edge of the side panel gently over the edge of the front panel.

   • Use 4–7 screws or nails, evenly spaced along the height, to secure the two panels.

2. Attach this side panel to the back panel (18 inches).

   • Screws or nails always run from the side panel to the edge of the back panel to create a secure connection.

   • Ensure the seam is seamless and free of any misalignment.

3. Attach the remaining side panel to the frame.

   • Each corner should be secured with 4–7 screws or nails.

   • Check for straightness after each fixation to prevent the house from tilting.

Notes on using a power screwdriver

• Tighten slowly and with moderate force to avoid cracking the wood edges.

• If the screw doesn't tighten immediately, pull it out and adjust the angle instead of trying to force it.

Check the slope of the roof.

• The complete frame should create a drop from 18 inches (rear) to 17 inches (front).

• This slope helps the roof drain water effectively and increases its durability when placed outdoors.

Step 7: Attach the floor to the squirrel house.

Once the frame is secure, you will install the floor using 12 x 12 inch wooden planks. This is a crucial step to ensure the entire structure is stable and square.

How to position the floor

• Place the house frame on a 12 x 12 inch wooden board.

• Align the 18-inch edge of the wall panel (back side) with the edge of the floor panel.

• Adjust the frame so that it sits evenly on the wooden board.

• Use a pencil to mark the positions of the frame corners for easier assembly.

How to properly secure the floor

1. Lift the house frame out and flip it over for easier handling.

2. Place the floor panels in the marked positions.

3. Use screws or nails to secure each corner first.

4. Each edge uses approximately 3–4 screws or nails, evenly spaced to create a secure grip.

Important note

• Only nail or screw into the wooden frame, avoiding nailing into the middle of the floorboards to prevent cracking or warping.

• After installation, check to ensure the frame and floor fit together tightly and are not misaligned.

Step 8: Create the interior space and install partitions for the squirrel house.

Inside the house, you can add partitions to create two levels – something many squirrels love because they are used to living in small, enclosed, and warm spaces.

Prepare materials for flooring.

• Use pillow stuffing or stuffed animal stuffing to create a soft lining.

• Naturally dried moss or moss purchased from craft stores are also excellent options.

• Avoid using materials that are prone to mold or do not allow for proper ventilation.

How to measure and make partition panels

1. Measure the inside dimensions of the squirrel house frame to cut a piece of wood that fits to make the second floor.

2. Create a circular hole, approximately 3 inches in diameter, in the partition panel, like a doorway, to allow the squirrels to easily move between the two levels.

3. Gently sand the edges with sandpaper to avoid scratching the squirrel.

How to install partition panels

• Thanks to someone holding the inner partition in place.

• The other person screws or nails the partition panel from the outside of the wall to the edge.

• Just secure them firmly at a few points; they don't need to be completely sealed like the outer frame.

Note when installing it inside a squirrel enclosure.

• A few small gaps between the partition and the wall are perfectly normal.

• The goal is to create a comfortable space for play and shelter, not the absolute airtightness of an external structure.

Step 9: Attach the roof to the squirrel house.

The roof is the part that protects the squirrels from rain and sun and provides a sense of security, so it needs to be installed securely and in the right position to ensure durability.

How to install a roof correctly

• Use the remaining 12 x 12 inch wooden planks to make the roof.

• Align the back edge of the roof panel with the back wall edge by 18 inches.

• The front roof section needs to protrude to create an overhang , preventing rainwater from splashing into the doors and front of the building.

How to secure the roof to the frame

1. Secure the roofing sheet firmly on top of the frame.

2. Use screws or nails to secure it from above, attaching it through the roof and to the side walls.

3. Secure each corner first, then the center points, to ensure the roof is firmly in place and won't move.

Note when performing the operation

• Keep the roofing sheet stable when drilling or nailing to prevent it from shifting.

• Do not use excessive force as this may crack the edges of the roof or walls.

Method 2: Instructions on how to safely hang a squirrel house in a tree.

Step 1: Choose a location in the garden for the squirrel's house.

The location of the house greatly determines whether squirrels will come to live there. Before hanging the house, you should observe the garden to understand their movement habits.

How to observe squirrel activity

• Spend some time each day observing where squirrels usually appear.

• Remember the trees that many squirrels frequently climb.

• Trees with wide canopies, high branches, and located along the squirrels' migration routes are ideal locations.

Criteria for choosing a location to hang a squirrel house.

• Hang the house at a height of 3–9 meters (10–30 feet).

• The taller the house, the safer squirrels feel and the more likely they are to accept it as a shelter.

• Prioritize trees with sturdy trunks, resistant to strong winds, and with natural support branches.

Practical suggestions

• Avoid hanging it too low as it will be easily accessible to cats or other animals.

• Avoid placing the squirrel house in direct sunlight or rain to make it last longer.

Step 2: Create a support structure to hang the squirrel house.

To secure the squirrel's nest to the tree trunk, you need to create two anchor points using large nails. This is a simple step, but it must be done carefully to ensure safety while working at height.

Prepare for safety before hanging a house.

• Use a sturdy ladder that is long enough to reach the hanging location.

• There is always someone standing below, holding the ladder and watching to provide assistance.

• Choose a flat, non-slippery surface before climbing the ladder.

How to create two fulcrums using nails

1. Use a hammer to drive the first large nail into the tree trunk.

   • Only hammer the nails deep enough, leaving about an inch to create a hook for holding them in place.

2. Drive the second nail parallel to it , about 8 inches away from the first.

   • This nail also needs to have an inch left to create a second point of support.

3. The two nails will create a clamping space, just the right size for the squirrel's house to slide into.

Check for durability

• Gently shake the two nails to make sure they are not loose.

• Try placing the house in the gap between the two nails to see if it fits and stands firmly.

Step 3: Secure the squirrel house to the tree trunk using wire.

After creating two anchor points with nails, you need to tighten the wire to secure the squirrel's house to the tree. This step helps reduce shaking and increases the squirrel's safety.

Choose the appropriate type of steel wire.

• Use thick, strong steel wire, specifically designed for securing heavy objects outdoors.

• Prioritize ropes with a tightening mechanism so you can easily increase leverage without performing dangerous maneuvers at height.

• If you don't have cable ties, you can still use regular wire and pliers to tighten it, but you need to be extremely careful when working on a ladder.

How to wrap and tighten steel wire

1. Wrap wire around the tree trunk and around the part of the squirrel's shelter.

2. Make sure the rope is horizontal and wraps around both the house and the tree trunk.

3. Use a wrench or pliers to gradually increase the torque until the house stands still and does not wobble when lightly touched.

4. Check all the wires for any twists or loose points.

Safety tips for working at heights

• There is always someone standing below holding the ladder.

• Avoid reaching too far while on a ladder; if necessary, move the ladder to a more convenient location.

• Tighten the string slowly to avoid causing the house to shift from its support.

Tips for choosing the right steel wire

• You can go to your nearest hardware or tool store and ask for thick, easy-to-tighten wire.

• The store staff will know which type is suitable for securing objects outdoors and can withstand heavy loads.

Step 4: Securely hang the squirrel house on the tree.

This is the final step, ensuring the squirrel house is positioned correctly between the two supporting nails and secured with wire to prevent shaking.

How to put the squirrel house in the right place.

• Lift the house up and slide the house body into the space between the two nails already hammered into the tree.

• The two nails should fit snugly against either side of the house; a slightly tight fit is ideal as it will help the house stand firm.

• Double-check that the house is securely fastened to the nails before you begin tightening the ropes.

Method of securing with steel wire

1. Use the wire that was wrapped around the tree trunk and the house structure in the previous step.

2. Tighten the ropes slowly so that the house is pressed firmly against the tree trunk without tilting.

3. Check for firmness by gently shaking the bottom or sides.

4. If the house is still loose, tighten the wire further or readjust the position to better fit the two nails.

Things to note when hanging houses high up.

• Always have someone stand below, holding the ladder and ensuring safety.

• Do not climb too high or lean too much while attaching the house to the nails.

Step 5: Add food to attract squirrels.

Once they have a stable place to live, squirrels will be easily attracted to it if you provide suitable food. This helps them quickly become familiar with the place and choose it as a long-term home .

Foods that squirrels like

• Bird food, especially mixed seeds.

• Small fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or other berries.

• Sunflower seeds – one of squirrels' favorite treats.

• Other nuts include peanuts, walnuts, and cashews.

• Dry pet food can also be used temporarily.

Tips to attract squirrels faster

• Place some food right by the entrance to the house for the first few days.

• Sprinkle some more on tree branches near your house so squirrels can easily spot it.

• Avoid putting too much food out at once to prevent attracting unwanted insects.

Tips for caring for squirrels in the garden

Once the squirrel house is complete and the squirrels have moved in, you can optimize their living environment by following these tips to ensure the safety of both the squirrels and the plants in your garden.

When there are many squirrels, prepare extra houses.

• If your area has many squirrels, build a few more squirrel houses to avoid territorial disputes.

• Each squirrel group usually prefers its own space, so the more houses there are, the easier it is for them to settle down.

Install additional separate feeders.

• Install a separate feeder instead of just placing food at the front door.

• This provides the squirrels with a stable food source, making them less dependent on the food placed right at the entrance.

• This also reduces the risk of attracting other species near the squirrel's home.

Never nail anything into a tree trunk.

• Nails can puncture the bark of a tree – an important protective layer.

• When the bark is damaged, bacteria and fungi can easily penetrate, causing the tree to weaken over time.

• This is why many tree experts consider nailing to trees a taboo.

Do not wrap wire around the tree trunk.

• Tightening steel wire directly around the tree trunk can obstruct the transport of sap.

• Over time, the wire tightening around the bark will kill the tree bark and may even kill the tree completely.

• If you need to secure a squirrel's home, use a hanger, specialized hooks, or other methods that won't damage the tree trunk.

References

1. https://www.hobbitstee.com/squirrel_boxes.pdf

Translated by Ashley Wright Nguyen .