Squirrels are known for their acrobatic agility and fluffy tails—but what about their nests? If you’ve ever looked up into the trees and noticed a messy ball of leaves, you may have spotted a squirrel’s home.
Squirrels build nests, commonly called dreys, primarily in tree branches or cavities. These nests are made from leaves, twigs, and bark and serve various purposes, including shelter and raising their young. Nest-building activity is most noticeable in June and July.
Understanding how squirrels build their nests helps clarify how they protect themselves, especially in urban or wooded environments. Read on to learn what they’re made of, where they’re built, and how you can identify one near your home.
What Does a Squirrel Nest Look Like?
Squirrel nests—or “dreys”—resemble a ball of loosely woven twigs, leaves, bark, and grass. They are usually around 12 to 20 inches wide, tightly packed, and well-insulated against cold or rain.
There are two main types:
- Leaf nests (dreys): Built high in trees with twigs and leaves.
- Cavity nests: Found in tree hollows or building gaps; warmer and more protected.
These nests are not random piles of debris. Inside, squirrels construct a soft inner chamber where they sleep and care for their young. In fact, squirrels do make nests for their babies, lining them with softer materials for comfort and warmth.
Where Do Squirrels Build Their Nests?
Squirrels prefer to build their nests in forks of tree branches or close to the trunk. This location offers both stability and protection from predators.
- Tree types: Oak, elm, and maple trees are commonly chosen.
- Height: Usually built 20–60 feet above ground.
- Urban settings: May use attics, chimneys, or garages if trees are limited.
When squirrels intend to build their nests in safe areas, they seek spots with strong branch support, minimal human disturbance, and a reliable food source nearby.
Why Do Squirrels Build Nests?
The main purposes of squirrel nests include:
- Shelter from weather: Rain, snow, and wind.
- Protection from predators: Birds of prey, snakes, or even domestic pets.
- Raising babies: Female squirrels give birth in nests and care for their kits for several weeks.
Squirrels build nests not just as resting spots but as essential shelters for thermoregulation, reproduction, and survival throughout the year.
When Do Squirrels Typically Build Nests?
Squirrel nest-building activity is most noticeable in June and July, aligning with the summer breeding season. However, they may also construct or reinforce nests in late fall to prepare for winter.
- First peak: Late spring to early summer
- Second peak: Fall (October to November)
This seasonal nesting ensures squirrels are protected during breeding and harsh weather.
Do Squirrels Build More Than One Nest?
Yes. Most squirrels build multiple nests within their territory. These act as backup shelters in case one becomes unsafe due to predators, parasites, or weather damage.
This behavior also helps reduce parasite infestations, especially in warm months.
How Long Do Squirrel Nests Last?
A well-constructed squirrel nest can last several months, but it often requires maintenance. Leaves may rot or blow away, and squirrels will regularly patch or rebuild them.
Cavity nests last longer but depend on the tree’s health and stability.
Signs of a Squirrel Nest Nearby
You might be near a squirrel nest if you notice:
- A large, ball-like clump of leaves in a tree fork
- Frequent squirrel traffic in and out of the same tree
- Sounds of scratching or chirping (especially in attics)
They make the biggest, most obvious nests during mating or preparation for cold weather.
Are Squirrel Nests a Problem for Homeowners?
They can be. In urban or suburban settings, squirrels may build nests in attics or chimneys, leading to:
- Electrical damage from gnawing
- Noise disturbances
- Fire hazards from nesting near insulation or wires
If squirrels are nesting too close to home, consider contacting wildlife control professionals.
Do squirrels reuse nests?
Yes. Squirrels often reuse nests, especially cavity nests. However, they may abandon a nest if it’s infested or compromised.
Do baby squirrels stay in the same nest?
Yes. Baby squirrels remain in the same nest for about 8–10 weeks until they are weaned and mobile.
How do squirrels pick a nest site?
They prefer high, stable tree forks or cavities with minimal threats and proximity to food.
Can more than one squirrel use a nest?
Usually no. Squirrels are territorial and solitary outside of mating and early mother-young periods.
Do male squirrels build nests?
Yes, although females primarily build nests for raising babies, both genders construct shelters for sleeping and protection.
Conclusion
Squirrels do build nests, and their choices—where they build them, how they look, and why—are all rooted in survival. These structures may appear messy from afar, but they are essential for warmth, protection, and raising young. If you see one near your home, you’re witnessing a natural part of squirrel behavior—though it may be wise to keep a respectful distance.
