Want to welcome the playful antics of red squirrels to your backyard? Providing a safe and cozy nest box, or nichoir pour écureuil roux as it’s known in French, is a fantastic way to support these charismatic creatures. This comprehensive guide covers everything from choosing the right materials and crafting the perfect drey to strategically placing it for maximum squirrel comfort and safety. Let’s get started!
Building a red squirrel drey is like designing a tiny, luxurious cabin. Consider what your furry tenants would appreciate: security, comfort, and easy access to amenities (in a squirrel’s world, that means trees!).
The Goldilocks principle applies here: not too big, not too small, but just right. Aim for an internal space of roughly 25cm x 25cm x 30cm (about the size of a shoebox, but taller). The entrance hole should be approximately 10cm in diameter—large enough for a squirrel, but small enough to deter predators.
Step-by-Step Construction
Gather Your Supplies: Untreated wood, screws, saw, drill, hole saw (for the entrance), and optional non-toxic paint for camouflage.
Cut the Wood: Cut the pieces according to your chosen dimensions (sides, front, back, base, roof).
Assemble the Box: Securely screw the sides, front, back, and base together.
Roof Construction: Attach the roof, ensuring an overhang to protect the entrance from rain and snow.
Entrance Hole: Use the hole saw to create the 10cm entrance hole.
Landing Platform (Optional): A small platform below the entrance gives squirrels easy access.
Camouflage (Optional): Apply non-toxic paint to help the drey blend in with its surroundings.
Optimal Drey Placement: Où placer un nichoir pour écureuil ?
Choosing the right location is crucial for attracting squirrels and ensuring their safety. Think like a squirrel: high, secure, and close to escape routes.
Height and Orientation
A height of 3-6 meters (10-20 feet) offers protection from ground predators. A downward-facing entrance keeps the drey dry and makes it harder for predators to access. While an east-facing aspect is often suggested for morning sun, any direction is acceptable, given the protective downward-facing entrance.
Location and Surroundings
Choose a quiet spot away from human activity, ideally near other trees or shrubs for easy arboreal travel. Ensure the entrance is shielded from prevailing winds.
Mounting
Use tree-friendly fixings like wire or rope. Avoid nails or screws, which can damage the tree. A baffle below the box adds extra protection against climbing predators.
Drey Maintenance
Clean out old nesting material annually, preferably after breeding season (late summer/early autumn). Check for and repair any damage to keep the drey inviting.
Creating a Squirrel Paradise: Comment faire venir des écureuils dans son jardin ?
Building a drey is just the first step. Transform your garden into a squirrel haven by providing:
Food: Offer a variety of nuts, seeds, and fruits. Squirrel feeders can supplement natural food sources.
Water: A fresh water source, like a bird bath, is essential.
Cover: Plant trees and shrubs that offer both food and shelter.
Understanding Squirrel Nests: Drey vs. Den
Squirrels build two types of nests: dreys (leafy nests in trees) and dens (in tree cavities or nest boxes). While we can’t replicate drey-building, providing a well-placed and maintained nest box offers a secure alternative. Read more about where to place your squirrel box here.
Why Provide Nest Boxes?
Providing nest boxes contributes to red squirrel conservation by offering safe havens for raising young, protection from predators and harsh weather, and a place to escape disturbances. By creating a welcoming environment, you’re helping these charming creatures thrive. Learn more about building a squirrel nest here.
Comment faire un nid pour les écureuils ?: Construction Tips For a Nichoir Pour Ecureuil Roux de Qualité
If you’re feeling handy, building a drey yourself is a rewarding project. Remember these key construction tips:
Material: Untreated wood (cedar or larch are excellent choices).
Size: Internal dimensions around 25cm x 25cm x 30cm, with a 10cm diameter entrance hole.
Construction Steps: Cut the wood, assemble the box, attach the roof, create the entrance hole, and add an optional landing platform. Consider painting it with non-toxic paint for camouflage.
Placement: Ensure optimal placement to enhance the squirrels’ security and comfort.
Feature
Ideal Scenario
Why?
Height
3-6 meters (10-20 feet)
Safe from ground predators, accessible to canopy.
Entrance
Downward-facing
Keeps out rain and snow, deters predators.
Location
Quiet, away from human activity
Reduces stress, promotes security.
Sunlight
Partial sun
Maintains warmth and dryness.
Surroundings
Near other trees, natural food sources
Encourages natural foraging and movement.
Extra Protection
Baffle or predator guard on tree trunk below box
Deters climbing predators.
By following these guidelines, you can create a nichoir pour écureuil roux that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing, contributing to a thriving squirrel population in your backyard. Remember that ongoing research may lead to evolving best practices, so stay curious!
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