Welcome to the fascinating world of squirrel picnic tables! This delightful article will dive into the whimsical and practical aspects of these miniature marvels. If you’re a nature enthusiast, a DIY hobbyist, or simply someone who enjoys a touch of whimsy in their backyard, squirrel picnic tables are a topic you’ll adore exploring.
Why Squirrel Picnic Tables Are a Must-Have
Squirrel picnic tables have become a charming addition to many gardens. These tiny tables are not just cute; they serve a practical purpose. By providing squirrels with their own dining area, you can:
- Keep squirrels away from bird feeders;
- Enjoy watching squirrels’ playful antics;
- Offer a safe feeding spot for these furry friends.
The Design and Build of a Squirrel Picnic Table
Crafting a squirrel picnic table is a fun and creative project. The basic design includes a small wooden table with benches, perfectly sized for squirrels. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wood Planks: Choose sturdy and weather-resistant wood, such as cedar or redwood, for durability;
- Nails or Screws: You’ll require these fasteners to join the wooden components securely;
- Hammer or Screwdriver: Use a hammer for nails and a screwdriver for screws, ensuring efficient assembly;
- Wood Glue (Optional): While not mandatory, wood glue can enhance the table’s structural integrity;
- Sandpaper: Essential for smoothing edges and ensuring a safe finish;
- Varnish: A protective varnish will extend the lifespan of your picnic table, safeguarding it against the elements.
Cut the Wood
Begin by preparing the wooden components necessary for your squirrel picnic table. You will need to cut the wood into several pieces to create the tabletop, seats, and legs. The exact dimensions may vary depending on your design, but typical measurements are as follows:
- Tabletop: A rectangular piece, approximately 12 inches by 8 inches;
- Seats (2): Rectangular pieces, approximately 4 inches by 6 inches each;
- Legs (4): Equal-length pieces, approximately 8 inches each.
Use a saw or a suitable cutting tool to achieve accurate cuts, ensuring the edges are straight and smooth.
Assemble the Tabletop
Once you have all the wooden pieces prepared, it’s time to construct the tabletop. Follow these steps:
- Lay out the wooden planks side by side, ensuring they are aligned evenly;
- Secure the planks together by using nails or screws. Place them at regular intervals along the length of the tabletop;
- To ensure stability, consider applying a thin layer of wood glue between the planks before nailing or screwing them together. This is an optional step but can enhance the table’s durability.
The result should be a flat and sturdy tabletop for the squirrel picnic table.
Attach the Legs
Next, attach the legs to the corners of the tabletop. This will provide support for the table and keep it stable. Follow these steps:
- Position one leg at each corner of the tabletop, ensuring they are flush with the edges;
- Secure the legs in place by either nailing or screwing them to the tabletop. Make sure they are firmly attached to prevent wobbling.
Add the Benches
Squirrels will need comfortable seating while enjoying their meal. To create benches on either side of the table, follow these steps:
- Take the two smaller wood pieces you prepared as seats and position them parallel to the longer sides of the tabletop;
- Attach these seat pieces to the legs and tabletop using nails or screws. Ensure they are securely fastened and at a comfortable height for squirrels to access easily.
Finishing Touches
To complete your squirrel picnic table, consider these optional finishing touches:
- Sand the edges of the table, benches, and legs to achieve a smooth and splinter-free finish. This will protect squirrels from injury while using the table;
- Apply a suitable varnish or outdoor wood finish to protect the wood from weathering and prolong the table’s lifespan. Ensure the varnish is non-toxic to ensure the safety of the visiting squirrels.
Location, Location, Location: Where to Place Your Squirrel Picnic Table
Placement is key for maximum enjoyment. Here are some tips:
- Near Trees or a Garden: Squirrels feel most comfortable in areas with natural cover. Placing your picnic table near trees or a garden allows them to access a safe haven quickly if they sense danger. It also provides them with additional food sources from trees and plants;
- Visible from Your Window: Position the picnic table where you can easily observe the squirrels from the comfort of your home. This ensures that you don’t disturb them while still enjoying their playful antics;
- Away from Predators: Protect squirrels from potential predators like cats, dogs, and birds of prey by placing the picnic table in an area that is less accessible to these threats. Elevated platforms or fence-enclosed spaces can help deter unwanted visitors;
- Stable and Secure: Ensure the picnic table is stable and securely anchored to prevent it from toppling over or spooking the squirrels. Stability will make the squirrels feel more at ease while dining.
What to Serve at Your Squirrel Picnic Table
Squirrels love a variety of foods, but it’s important to choose healthy options:
Nuts
Squirrels are notorious nut lovers, and offering them nuts can be a great way to attract them to your picnic table. Here are two types of nuts that squirrels particularly enjoy:
- Almonds: Almonds are rich in healthy fats and protein, making them an excellent choice for squirrels. Ensure the almonds are unsalted and unseasoned;
- Walnuts: Walnuts are another favorite of squirrels due to their high nutritional content. Like almonds, opt for unsalted and unseasoned walnuts to promote their well-being.
Fruits
Squirrels have a sweet tooth and enjoy various fruits. Offering fruits not only provides them with essential vitamins but also adds a touch of natural sweetness to their diet. Consider the following fruits:
- Apples: Sliced or diced apples are a nutritious option that squirrels find appealing. Remove any seeds as they can be toxic;
- Bananas: Squirrels relish the soft texture and mild sweetness of bananas. Slice them into small pieces for easy consumption.
Vegetables
Squirrels benefit from a well-rounded diet that includes vegetables. Vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals. Try the following options:
- Carrots: Carrots are a crunchy and healthy snack for squirrels. They provide vitamin A, which supports their eye health;
- Zucchini: Sliced zucchini is another veggie that squirrels enjoy. It’s a hydrating option that adds variety to their diet.
Seeds and Grains
In addition to nuts, squirrels also appreciate seeds and grains. These foods offer them a good source of carbohydrates and energy. Consider including:
- Sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds are a favorite among squirrels. They are easy to consume and provide valuable nutrients;
- Corn kernels: Fresh or dried corn kernels can be a tasty addition to their menu. Corn is a good source of carbohydrates;
- Oats: Rolled oats are a nutritious choice for squirrels. They are high in fiber and can be scattered on the picnic table.
Warning: Avoid feeding squirrels junk food or overly salty treats.
Maintaining Your Squirrel Picnic Table
To ensure longevity:
Regularly Check and Tighten Loose Screws
Squirrel picnic tables are typically made of wood and are exposed to the elements, which can cause screws to become loose over time. To prevent structural issues and maintain the table’s stability, follow these steps:
| Maintenance Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Inspection | Periodically inspect the table for loose screws. |
| Screwdriver | Use a screwdriver to tighten any loose screws. |
| Replace | Replace any damaged or rusted screws if needed. |
By performing regular inspections and tightening loose screws, you’ll prevent the table from wobbling or collapsing, ensuring the safety and comfort of your squirrel visitors.
Cleaning to Prevent Mold or Bacteria
Cleaning your squirrel picnic table is crucial to maintain a hygienic environment for the squirrels and prevent the growth of mold or harmful bacteria. Follow these cleaning guidelines:
| Cleaning Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Gather Supplies | Collect a bucket, mild soap, water, and a scrub brush. |
| Remove Debris | Clear away any food scraps, leaves, or debris on the table. |
| Scrub Surface | Mix soap and water, then scrub the table’s surface. |
| Rinse | Rinse thoroughly with clean water. |
| Dry | Allow the table to air dry completely before use. |
Regular cleaning will ensure that the table remains a safe and inviting space for your squirrel friends, preventing potential health issues.
Refinishing or Repainting the Table
Wooden squirrel picnic tables can deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements. To extend their lifespan and keep them looking attractive, refinishing or repainting may be necessary:
| Refinishing/Repainting Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Surface Preparation | Sand the table’s surface to remove old finish or paint. |
| Cleaning | Remove dust and debris from sanding with a damp cloth. |
| Selecting Finish | Choose a suitable wood finish or outdoor paint. |
| Application | Apply the finish or paint following manufacturer’s instructions. |
| Drying | Allow sufficient drying time as per product guidelines. |
Refinishing or repainting your squirrel picnic table not only improves its appearance but also
provides an additional layer of protection against weathering and wood decay.
Conclusion
A squirrel picnic table is not just a whimsical garden feature; it’s a delightful way to connect with nature. Whether you choose to build or buy one, these tiny tables can provide endless entertainment and a unique way to observe and aid our furry friends. So, why not add a squirrel picnic table to your garden and enjoy the lively antics of these adorable creatures?
FAQ
Yes, it’s likely that providing food will attract more squirrels.
Absolutely, there are many options available online.
It’s difficult to restrict other wildlife, but placing the table in a less accessible spot may help.
Yes, but supervise pets to ensure they don’t disturb the squirrels.