5. Bark-Covered Log Cabin Roost
For a shelter that blends into a woodland border, build around a short section of hollow log. This one takes a bit more effort but looks like it grew there.
Materials: a 10-inch length of hollow log or a piece of 4×4 lumber drilled with a 1-inch tunnel, loose bark pieces, wood glue, twine, and a flat roof board. If you’re using solid lumber, drill three or four vertical tunnels about ⅜ inch wide and four inches deep, angling slightly upward so rain can’t run in.
Glue overlapping bark pieces across the exterior, leaving the tunnel openings clear. Cap the top with a flat board overhanging by an inch on each side. Bind the bark with twine while the glue sets.
Time: 1 hour. Difficulty: intermediate. Nestle it into a shrub border or attach it to a tree trunk at chest height, facing away from prevailing wind.