How to Build a Squirrel House

Some people think squirrels are nothing more than ugly, tree loving rodents. Others think squirrels are cute little animals that are welcome in their yards any time. It is certainly not hard to attract squirrels. In fact, all you need is a tree. Keeping those squirrels happy and warm takes a bit of work. It is extremely easy to provide your squirrel friends with a home to keep warm and call their own. If you are a squirrel lover, use this guide to build your own squirrel house in your yard.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Nails
• Leaves
• Old tire
• Hammer
• Ladder

1. Find the south side of a tree. This tree should be large enough to hold your squirrel house, so be sure it is decent sized. Having your squirrel house face south will keep it warm during the day and keep it from getting too cold at night. It also prevents too much wind from entering.
2. Hold an old tire up to the tree about 15 feet from the ground. The tire squirrel house is a great house for someone that doesn't like to build. Squirrels like to climb, and this elevation keeps them safe from most predators.
3. Hammer at least two large nails in the tire. Depending on the tire's size, you may need substantially more nails to hold it in place. The nails should be placed on the top inside lip and the bottom inside lip of the tire.
4. Place bedding material inside your tire squirrel house. This includes corn stalks and dried leaves. These are, by far, the easiest materials to find. If you want to omit this part, that is fine. Squirrels can easily find their own bedding material.
5. Clean out the squirrel house before every fall. This will prevent odor and disease to your squirrels. All you need to do is empty the house of bedding material and perhaps spray it down with water.

Tips & Warnings

• Squirrel boxes are most helpful during the cold winter months and the spring when they are raising their babies. Squirrels don't need houses any other time of the year, but they will use one if it is available.
• Cats can still climb up to a squirrel box, no matter how high you place it. It is best to give your own cat a bell around her neck to alert the squirrels when she arrives.