Woodworking is never so rewarding as when a completed project continues to provide joy and amusement well after the project is completed. Building a backyard squirrel playground is one of those ideas that will keep the creative juices flowing and keep squirrels coming back for more. Best of all these projects are simple and don't require very much in the way of supplies.
While there are some individuals that view squirrels as a nuisance rodent, there are also fans of the intelligent and crafty squirrel. Rather than spending time on squirrel proofing bird feeders, they instead devise feeders designed to intrigue and test the cleverness of these little bandits as they problem solve their way into delicious treats.
Best Types of Wood for Outdoor Projects
For these projects it is best to use an untreated wood that is capable of withstanding outdoor extremes. Cedar is an excellent wood for this as well as cherry and oak. Try to avoid treated woods because squirrels do like to gnaw on wood and the chemicals used in the treatment process can be harmful to them.
Squirrel Feeder Designs
The first feeder is a fairly common one. It consists of a basic box construction much like that of a standard birdhouse. The changes involve three circular cutouts on the front and both sides of the box and the addition of a platform in the front. Once mounted on the tree a glass jar, such as a mayonnaise jar, is attached to the front cut-out. The addition of a wooden support beneath the jar helps to hold it in place. Fill the jar with nuts and let the fun begin.
Another popular and perhaps the easiest feeder involves the construction of a flat platform to which one or more vertical long screws are attached. The platform is attached to another straight length of wood and secured to a tree and dried ears of corn are placed onto the long screws which extend up through the bottom of the platform.
Challenging Squirrel Feeders
Squirrels are problem solvers. Give them a challenge and it won't be long before they figure it out. Such is the purpose of this next feeder. The plexiglass front allows squirrels to see what's inside, but not to reach it. At least until they figure out how to lift up the lid.
And finally, the puzzle box. This is a shallow enclosed box that has various size cut-outs located on the top and sides. The fun begins by putting in different size hardshell nuts and watching the squirrels try to figure out which hole will let them pull one out.
The possibilities with building squirrel feeders and toys are virtually limitless especially with the addition of moving parts such as levers, slides, pins and wheels. Channel some woodworking projects toward a backyard wonderland for some of natures more fun-loving creatures and enjoy the smiles.
Beverly Hill - Beverly is an outdoor adventure writer who owns and maintains Northwest Florida Outdoor Adventure.
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