Not every nest in your trees belongs to a bird. Some belong to a clever, bushy-tailed resident you’ve likely spotted leaping from branch to branch. Squirrel nests are fascinating, and while they might look like simple piles of leaves, they hide a surprising story about nature’s ingenuity.
Spotting the difference between bird and squirrel nests
We love the idea of birds nesting in our gardens. There’s something comforting about a tiny creature trusting us enough to raise its young nearby. But those piles of twigs and leaves you see high up in the trees? Not all of them belong to birds.
Alissa Kakatsch, assistant ecologist specializing in turkeys and pheasants at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, explains that squirrels build two types of nests. The first, called a tree cavity den, is tucked into natural or man-made hollows such as tree cavities, birdhouses, or even sheds. The second, known as a leaf nest, is the one you’re most likely to spot in your yard.
“Standard squirrel nests are built high in trees, typically between 20 and 35 feet, sometimes reaching 35 feet or more,” says Kakatsch. “They’re made of twigs, leaves, and softer lining materials inside.” That means the large leafy balls at the tops of your trees are probably squirrel nests, not bird homes.
What a squirrel nest looks like
The easiest way to tell the difference between a bird nest and a squirrel nest is size and visibility. Squirrel nests are generally larger than bird nests and more obvious on tree branches. Bird nests tend to be smaller, hidden, and tucked into forks or dense foliage.
Red squirrels typically build nests in pine trees, while gray squirrels are often the culprits behind the leafy globes you see at the very tops of trees. Checking for movement can also help—you might spot a squirrel darting in or out, a telltale sign that the nest belongs to a mammal rather than a bird.
Squirrel behavior is fascinating. Like birds, squirrels can have multiple litters each year. Their breeding season usually runs from spring through fall, and the young leave the nest at around 12 weeks old. Unlike some species, they do not mate for life, and females care for their young on their own.
I once watched a squirrel family in my backyard over the course of a season. Seeing the mother carefully ferry her babies in and out of the nest, I realized just how industrious and intelligent these little creatures are. It was a small reminder of how much life thrives right above our heads, often unnoticed.
Understanding squirrel nesting habits
Squirrels are resourceful. They sometimes build nests—or dens—in tree cavities, which provide protection from predators and harsh weather. Leaf nests, on the other hand, are more exposed but still surprisingly sturdy, crafted from hundreds of twigs, leaves, and moss to create a cozy shelter.
While their nests may be cute, squirrels can become a nuisance, especially when they raid bird feeders or chew through garden structures. However, Kakatsch strongly advises against disturbing these nests, particularly if young squirrels are present. “You shouldn’t risk the health or well-being of the young or leave them orphaned,” she says. “We recommend leaving nests alone during March and October, as these months are peak nesting periods.”
If a squirrel nest is in an inconvenient spot, there are humane ways to discourage the animals. Motion-activated lights, gentle noise, or background music can make areas less inviting. You can also block potential den entrances in garages, sheds, and other outbuildings. The key is not to harm them but to guide them to safer, less problematic areas.
Living alongside squirrels with understanding
Squirrels aren’t trying to complicate your life—they’re simply doing what comes naturally. Like birds, they’re working hard to survive and raise their young. Observing their nests can teach us patience, respect, and a little wonder for the wildlife that shares our spaces.
So the next time you look up and see a large cluster of leaves perched in a tree fork, remember : it’s not just debris. It’s a squirrel’s carefully built home, complete with a furry resident raising a family. Watching these creatures can remind us of the intricate lives happening right above our heads and inspire a deeper appreciation for nature in our own backyards.
Have you ever spotted a squirrel nest in your garden or yard ? What did you do when you noticed it ? Share your experiences, comment below, and let’s celebrate the ingenuity of these clever, bushy-tailed neighbors.
