What Can I Feed Squirrels

Have you ever watched a squirrel bury a nut in your yard and wondered what other treats they might enjoy? These bushy-tailed creatures are a common sight in many neighborhoods and parks, often charming us with their acrobatic antics and curious nature. But while they seem perfectly capable of foraging on their own, providing supplemental food for squirrels can have benefits for both the animals and the environment, especially during harsh weather or when natural food sources are scarce.

Knowing what to safely feed squirrels ensures they get a balanced diet and reduces the risk of them becoming overly reliant on humans. Choosing the right foods can also help prevent them from raiding bird feeders or gardens in search of less desirable snacks. Understanding the do's and don'ts of squirrel feeding is essential for maintaining a healthy and harmonious coexistence with these fascinating creatures.

What Can I Feed Squirrels Safely and Responsibly?

What nuts are healthiest to feed squirrels?

The healthiest nuts to feed squirrels are those that most closely mimic their natural diet and provide essential nutrients without being overly processed or salted. Walnuts, almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts (also called filberts) are excellent choices because they offer a good balance of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

Squirrels benefit from a varied diet, and while nuts are a great source of energy, relying solely on one type can lead to nutritional deficiencies. It's crucial to avoid salted nuts, as excessive sodium can be harmful to squirrels. Nuts in their shells are preferable, as the squirrels expend energy opening them, promoting natural foraging behavior and dental health. Shelled nuts are fine, but ensure they are unsalted and raw. Avoid feeding squirrels peanuts frequently. While they enjoy them, peanuts are technically legumes and not as nutritionally beneficial as tree nuts. They also have a higher risk of containing aflatoxins, which can be harmful. When offering nuts, consider supplementing with other healthy foods like small pieces of fruits (apple, grapes, berries) and vegetables (broccoli, carrots, squash) to provide a more balanced diet. Remember moderation is key, as too much of any food can disrupt a squirrel's natural foraging habits and lead to dependency.

Are sunflower seeds okay for squirrels to eat regularly?

Yes, sunflower seeds are generally safe for squirrels to eat regularly, but they should be offered in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While squirrels enjoy them and they provide essential fats and calories, relying solely on sunflower seeds can lead to nutritional deficiencies and potential health problems.

Squirrels need a varied diet to obtain all the vitamins and minerals they require. Sunflower seeds are relatively high in fat and phosphorus, and low in calcium. Consuming too many sunflower seeds can create an imbalance in their calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, potentially leading to metabolic bone disease, especially in young squirrels. This condition can cause weakened bones, fractures, and difficulty moving. To ensure squirrels remain healthy, supplement their sunflower seed intake with other foods like nuts (walnuts, pecans, acorns), fruits (apples, grapes, berries), vegetables (broccoli, carrots, corn), and occasionally small amounts of commercially available squirrel food. Providing a diverse range of foods will help them get the nutrients they need and prevent over-reliance on sunflower seeds, promoting a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. Remember to offer these treats in reasonable quantities to encourage natural foraging behaviors.

Can squirrels eat grapes or other fruits?

Yes, squirrels can eat grapes and many other fruits. Fruits offer squirrels essential vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars for energy. However, fruit should only be offered as a small part of a balanced diet.

Fruits provide squirrels with beneficial nutrients, but moderation is key. Too much sugar from fruit can lead to health problems like obesity and dental issues. When offering fruit, consider it a treat rather than a staple food. Opt for smaller portions and a variety of fruits to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients. Good choices include grapes (green or red), berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), apples (remove seeds), melon, peaches, and pears. It's important to note that not all fruits are safe for squirrels. Avoid offering them fruit pits or seeds, as some contain cyanide compounds that are toxic. For example, apricot, cherry, peach, and plum pits should be removed. Also, avoid processed fruits with added sugars or artificial sweeteners, as these can be harmful. Fresh, ripe fruits are the healthiest option for supplementing a squirrel's diet.

What foods should I absolutely avoid feeding squirrels?

You should absolutely avoid feeding squirrels processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, as well as certain raw nuts, seeds, and vegetables that can be toxic or cause digestive issues. These foods offer no nutritional value and can be detrimental to a squirrel's health, leading to obesity, malnutrition, and even death.

While it's tempting to offer squirrels scraps from your table, many common human foods are harmful to them. Processed snacks like chips, crackers, candy, and chocolate are loaded with sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats that can cause obesity and dental problems in squirrels. Similarly, salty foods like pretzels or salted nuts can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Foods containing artificial sweeteners are also a definite no-go. Certain raw nuts and seeds are also dangerous. Avoid feeding squirrels raw peanuts, cashews, and sunflower seeds in large quantities, as they can contain toxins or anti-nutrients that interfere with nutrient absorption. Raw red kidney beans are toxic to squirrels, as are green potatoes and potato sprouts. Remember, a squirrel's digestive system is not designed to process these items, and feeding them can lead to serious health problems. Focus instead on providing a natural and balanced diet consisting of safe nuts, seeds, and vegetables that support their well-being. Consider these items off-limits:

Is it safe to give squirrels bread or crackers?

Generally, it's best to avoid feeding squirrels bread or crackers. While a small piece now and then likely won't cause immediate harm, these foods offer very little nutritional value and can even be detrimental to their health. They are essentially "empty calories" that fill them up without providing the necessary vitamins, minerals, and fats that squirrels need for a balanced diet.

Bread and crackers often contain excessive amounts of salt, sugar, and refined carbohydrates, which can lead to health problems in squirrels. Regular consumption can contribute to obesity, dental issues, and nutritional deficiencies. Wild squirrels need a diverse diet of nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables to thrive. Filling them up with processed human foods can discourage them from foraging for these more nutritious options, ultimately impacting their overall health and well-being. Instead of bread or crackers, consider offering squirrels healthier alternatives like unsalted nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds), seeds (sunflower, pumpkin), small amounts of fresh fruits (berries, apple slices), or vegetables (carrots, broccoli). These options provide essential nutrients and support their natural foraging behaviors. Remember that moderation is key, even with healthy foods, as overfeeding can make squirrels dependent on humans and disrupt the natural ecosystem.

Do squirrels need water, and if so, how should I provide it?

Yes, squirrels absolutely need water to survive, just like any other mammal. Providing a reliable water source, especially during hot, dry weather or freezing temperatures, is crucial for their health and well-being. You can offer water in a variety of ways, from simple bowls to specialized squirrel waterers.

Providing water is particularly important because squirrels often obtain moisture from the foods they eat, such as fruits and vegetables. However, during droughts or when their natural food sources are scarce, access to fresh water becomes vital. A shallow dish or bowl filled with clean water is a simple and effective method. Be sure to clean it regularly to prevent algae growth and bacteria. You can also use a bird bath, ensuring the water level isn't too deep for them to safely access. Specialized squirrel watering devices, which often attach to trees or fences, can also be purchased. In winter, make sure the water doesn't freeze. Heated bird baths are excellent for this purpose, or you can simply replace the water with fresh, unfrozen water multiple times a day. A good strategy is to position the water source near their feeding area; squirrels are more likely to use it if it's conveniently located. Remember that consistent access to fresh water significantly contributes to the overall health and survival of the squirrels in your area.

Will feeding squirrels make them dependent on me?

While consistently providing food can lead squirrels to associate you as a reliable food source and visit more frequently, it is unlikely to make them entirely dependent on you for survival. Squirrels are naturally resourceful foragers and retain their instincts to find food from various sources.

However, excessive or exclusive feeding can potentially alter their natural foraging behavior. If a readily available food source is always present, squirrels might become less motivated to search for other natural foods, especially during periods of abundance. This could make them more vulnerable if you suddenly stop providing food, particularly during harsh weather or breeding seasons. It's best to view supplemental feeding as a treat rather than a necessity. Offer a variety of healthy foods in moderation and avoid overfeeding. By supplementing their diet with nutritious snacks while they continue to forage naturally, you can enjoy their presence without creating a dangerous dependence. Always ensure they have access to natural food sources in your yard by planting native trees and shrubs that produce nuts, seeds, and berries. Ultimately, squirrels are wild animals and will always rely on their natural instincts and foraging skills. Providing supplemental food is unlikely to change that fundamental aspect of their behavior, as long as you do so responsibly.

So, there you have it – a whole bunch of yummy and healthy treats you can share with your backyard buddies! Hopefully, you've found some great ideas to keep those squirrels happy and well-fed. Thanks for stopping by, and be sure to come back soon for more tips and tricks on caring for our furry friends!