Squirrel NestHow it works & interactions with other cards

Granting an Ability

Unlike many Auras that provide a static bonus, Squirrel Nest gives the enchanted land a new activated ability. This means the land itself gains the text '{T}: Create a 1/1 green Squirrel creature token.' Because it is an activated ability of the land, it follows all standard rules for tapping permanents, and the land can no longer be tapped for mana if you choose to create a Squirrel instead.

Step-by-Step Resolution

First, you cast Squirrel Nest targeting a land you control. Once it resolves, the land now has two separate abilities: its original mana ability and the new Squirrel-producing ability. During your turn (or an opponent's turn), you can tap the land to activate the ability. This puts a 1/1 green Squirrel creature token directly onto the battlefield. The token does not have haste, so it cannot attack or tap the turn it arrives unless another effect grants it haste.

Strategic Timing

The best time to use Squirrel Nest is often during your opponent's end step. By waiting until the last possible moment, you keep your land untapped and available for mana in case you need to cast a reactive spell. If you don't need the mana, you tap it right before your turn begins to untap the land and have a fresh Squirrel ready to attack.

Common Pitfalls

Remember that if the enchanted land leaves the battlefield or loses its land type, Squirrel Nest will be put into your graveyard as a state-based action. Additionally, if an effect prevents activated abilities of lands from being played, you will not be able to create any Squirrels.

Interaction examples

Building an Army

Squirrel NestSquirrel

You attach Squirrel Nest to a basic Forest. During your opponent's turn, you tap the Forest to activate the granted ability. A Squirrel token is created. On your next turn, you untap the Forest and can repeat the process, slowly building a swarm of 1/1 creatures.

Power and Trample

Squirrel NestGarruk's Uprising

While Squirrel Nest normally creates 1/1 tokens, if you have an effect that increases their power to 4 or greater as they enter, Garruk's Uprising would trigger, allowing you to draw a card. Furthermore, the Uprising grants all your Squirrel tokens trample, making your swarm much harder to block effectively.

Managing Resources

Squirrel NestSylvan Library

In a deck using Sylvan Library to dig deep for answers, you might find yourself low on life and unable to pay for extra cards. Squirrel Nest provides a 'free' way to develop your board state every turn without spending additional mana or life, serving as a reliable backup plan while you filter your draws.