As homeowners, we occasionally wage a silent war against the whims of nature, and squirrels—those agile, bushy-tailed neighbors—often find their way into our attics or under our roofs, looking for a warm place to nest. Yet, what if we could channel their nesting instincts into more suitable accommodations? Crafting a squirrel house isn’t just a charming backyard project; it’s a proactive step in wildlife management. The key to success is selecting the right materials for these structures. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which materials make the best homes for our arboreal companions and why some should be avoided to keep both your property and the squirrels safe and happy. Alternatively you could check out our best picks for squirrel houses.
Materials to Use for Building Squirrel Houses
When choosing materials for constructing squirrel houses, consider durability, safety, and the ability to withstand outdoor elements. Let’s delve into some materials that tick all these boxes.
Wood
Why Wood Reigns Supreme
Wood is a time-honored choice when it comes to building squirrel houses. Its natural origin blends seamlessly into the outdoor environment, making it both aesthetically pleasing and inviting for squirrels. But it’s not just about looks; wood is also incredibly durable, key for structures that are meant to last through seasons of harsh weather.
The Types of Wood to Consider
- Cedar: Naturally resistant to rot and insect damage, cedar is an excellent option for longevity. Its aroma is an added perk, acting as a natural deterrent for pests.
- Pine: A more economical choice, pine is still sturdy enough for a seasonal squirrel house. However, it may need to be replaced sooner than cedar due to its lesser resistance to rot.
- Untreated Hardwoods: Opt for untreated woods to avoid chemicals that could be harmful to the squirrels. Hardwoods last longer and provide a sturdy abode for your backyard buddies.
Metal Hardware Cloth
A Barrier Against Intruders
In strategic spots such as ventilation holes or around the entrance of the squirrel house, a robust reinforcement is crucial. Here enters metal hardware cloth—galvanized steel mesh that is nearly indestructible by those sharp squirrel teeth.
Application Tips
- Size Matters: Choose a fine mesh to prevent baby squirrels from slipping through but still allow for proper air circulation.
- Secure Firmly: Use screws or staples that will hold the cloth firmly in place, even in bad weather or against persistent nibbling.
- Cover Edges: Ensure you attach the mesh flush against the wood to prevent squirrels or other animals from getting injured on sharp points.
Materials to Avoid for Building Squirrel Houses
Just as important as the materials we choose are the ones we sidestep in our construction efforts. Some materials, though common in other applications, present vulnerabilities when it comes to deterring squirrels.
Avoid Soft Materials
The Gritty Truth
Materials such as fiber cement, sheet metal flashing, and auto body filler might be useful in various construction projects, but they fail the squirrel-proof test. These materials are no match for the persistent gnawing of a determined squirrel, resulting in damages that render your squirrel house ineffective.
Avoid Openings Without Reinforcement
A Gateway for Unwanted Guests
An opening that seems secure today may not hold up tomorrow against the determination of wildlife. Excluding metal hardware cloth reinforcement is a gamble that could lead to squirrels and other creatures gaining easy access to the house, and from there, potentially your home.
Crafting with Caution
- Inspect Regularly: Even with metal hardware cloth in place, it’s essential to inspect squirrel houses regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
- Reinforce When Necessary: A periodically reinforced squirrel house maintains its integrity and functionality, keeping the critters safely housed and away from your living quarters.
To put it succinctly, the best materials for squirrel houses are those that cater to the needs of our furry friends while being robust enough to offer protection from the elements and their own gnawing habits. The use of sturdy wood like cedar or pine, the incorporation of metal hardware cloth, and the application of cayenne pepper can help create a sanctuary for squirrels that is both safe and enduring. On the flip side, steering clear of soft or easily damaged materials and ensuring that all openings are securely guarded will ensure that your squirrel house remains intact and functional for years to come.
So, as you embark on this environmentally friendly mission to provide squirrels with a house of their own, remember that the materials you choose not only shape the home but also the harmony between wildlife and humans in your own backyard. Continuing from where we left off, let’s dive deeper into what makes certain materials suitable or unsuitable for our squirrelly neighbors’ abodes and wrap up with some key insights and commonly asked questions.
Crafting Squirrel Houses with Care
Building a squirrel house is not just hammering some planks together; it requires thoughtful selection and application of materials to ensure a functional and durable solution to squirrel management. Let’s continue our exploration into the best practices for constructing these wildlife homes.
Think Environmentally
Choose Sustainably Sourced Materials
Eco-friendly building isn’t just for human homes. When selecting wood, aim to use sustainably sourced materials. This supports the environment and provides a guilt-free home for your furry friends. Look for wood that’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or similar organizations to ensure you’re contributing positively to the ecosystems you’re already trying to protect.
Avoid Chemical Treatments
Treated woods often contain harmful chemicals that could leech into the environment or cause health issues for the squirrels. Stick to natural, untreated woods, and use eco-friendly stains or sealants to extend the life of the wood without causing harm.
Maintenance is Key
Regular Check-Ups
Squirrel houses, just like any other structure, degrade over time. Inspect them at least once a year for signs of wear and tear. Make repairs as needed to ensure that they remain sturdy sanctuaries rather than becoming dilapidated hazards.
Keep It Clean
An often overlooked aspect of wildlife care is the cleanliness of their provided shelters. Having a removable roof or side panel on the squirrel house permits easy cleaning, ensuring a healthy environment free of parasites or mold that could harm its occupants.
Key Takeaways
Now let’s summarize the crucial points we’ve covered about creating the ultimate squirrel house:
- Choose Durable, Untreated Wood: Cedar and pine are great choices, but always avoid chemically treated wood.
- Reinforce with Metal Hardware Cloth: Use fine mesh to cover vents and entrances, ensuring the house is secure from squirrel chewing and other critters.
- Utilize Cayenne Pepper: A natural deterrent, cayenne pepper can be used to discourage squirrels from taking up residence in your home rather than the squirrel house.
- Avoid Soft, Chewable Materials: Stay away from materials that can’t stand up to a squirrel’s persistent gnawing.
- Regular Maintenance: Conduct periodic inspections and cleanings to maintain the structure’s integrity and sanitation.
FAQ Section
What are the ideal dimensions for a squirrel house?
The ideal size of a squirrel house should be approximately 12″ x 12″ x 12″ for the interior space, with an entrance hole about 3 inches in diameter. However, dimensions can vary slightly based on the specific species of squirrel you’re aiming to attract.
Can I use plywood for building squirrel houses?
While plywood can be used, it is not the best choice for squirrel houses. It tends to degrade faster when exposed to the elements. It’s also important to ensure that the plywood has not been treated with chemicals that could be harmful to the squirrels.
How do I prevent other animals from occupying the squirrel houses?
Sizing the entrance hole correctly can discourage larger animals from entering. Use a hole that’s about 3 inches in diameter, suitable for squirrels but too small for larger animals. You can also place the house high up on a tree or pole, making it difficult for non-climbers to access.
How far from my house should I install a squirrel house?
Ideally, squirrel houses should be placed at least 20 to 30 feet away from your home to reduce the chance of squirrels entering your living space.
Is it necessary to put food in the squirrel house to attract them?
It’s not necessary to provide food inside the squirrel house, as squirrels are natural foragers. However, having a food source nearby like a squirrel feeder might encourage them to take up residence.
Building a Balance Between Nature and Home
When we embrace the task of creating spaces for wildlife, like squirrel houses, we’re taking a valuable step towards ecological stability. It’s about more than building a box; it’s about constructing a bridge of coexistence. In this journey of harmonizing with our furry backyard acrobats, we’ve discovered that the materials we choose play a starring role. Wood provides a sturdy, natural homestead, while metal hardware cloth and a dash of cayenne pepper secure and season the setup. Remembering to bypass easily chewed or environmentally damaging materials ensures the longevity of both the squirrel houses and our peace of mind.
As the seasons change and trees once again sway under the acrobatics of squirrels, we can smile, knowing we’ve provided safe harbors for these enchanting creatures. It’s the small actions, the selection of a wood variety, the sprinkle of cayenne, and the strategic placement of a mesh, that stitch together the fabric of a community that includes both human and animal residents. So here’s to building—not just houses, but also relationships with the natural world. When we build with care, we grow in understanding and create a space that’s a little safer, a little kinder, and a lot more squirrel-friendly.
Hey there, fellow nature enthusiasts! I’m Mark Gray, the passionate owner of OutdoorAnimals.com, a hub dedicated to uncovering the incredible world of outdoor animals. Whether you’re a hiker, a four-wheeler, or just someone who revels in the beauty of the great outdoors, you’re in the right place. I seek to understand all varieties of animals, from the great elk to the simple mouse, my goal is to write and share this knowledge with the public.