You want squirrels to actually use your box, not just ignore it. Put the box 8–12 feet high on a sturdy trunk or fork, and make sure it faces away from strong winds and that intense afternoon sun. That way
Hardware Cloth and Interior Elements
Line up vulnerable spots with 19-gauge, 1/2-inch hardware cloth. This stops chewing and keeps critters from sneaking in.
Cover the entrance tunnel frame, vents, and any exposed interior edges. Attach the cloth to wooden battens using stainless screws—they’ll stay put and won’t rust.
Try non-toxic bedding, like dry grass or wood shavings. Skip the cedar, since it’s not safe.
Add a shallow shelf or baffle inside, with a small offset hole. It helps keep the box warmer and slows down predators. You can make that shelf removable, so cleaning’s way easier.
Use carriage bolts to hold all the interior parts together. That way, you can take things apart for maintenance.
If you find any sharp wire edges, cover them with folded metal strips. That’ll protect both the squirrels and your own hands during cleaning.
