Squirrels’ diets primarily consist of nuts, seeds, and fruits, but they are opportunistic eaters who adapt to their environment. FOODS.EDU.VN provides an in-depth look at squirrel nutrition, so you can understand what these creatures eat and how to provide them with a balanced diet. Discover the natural foods squirrels love and how you can create a squirrel-friendly environment in your garden. Let’s explore squirrel feeding habits, nutritional needs, and how to keep these fascinating animals healthy and happy.
1. Are Squirrels Carnivores, Herbivores, or Omnivores?
Squirrels are primarily herbivores, with nuts, seeds, and fruits forming the bulk of their diet. However, they are also opportunistic omnivores, meaning they will occasionally eat insects, eggs, and even small animals when other food sources are scarce.
1.1. The Herbivorous Side of Squirrels
Squirrels thrive on plant-based foods, including a variety of nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. According to a study by the Wildlife Society, these foods provide essential nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are crucial for their energy needs and overall health.
1.2. When Squirrels Turn to Meat: Opportunistic Omnivores
In times of scarcity or when the opportunity arises, squirrels may supplement their diet with animal-based protein. This can include insects, bird eggs, and even small vertebrates. A research paper published in the Journal of Mammalogy notes that squirrels’ adaptability allows them to survive in diverse environments by exploiting various food sources.
1.3. Balancing Act: The Ideal Squirrel Diet
While squirrels can eat a wide range of foods, a balanced diet should consist primarily of plant-based items. According to experts at FOODS.EDU.VN, providing a mix of nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables ensures that squirrels receive all the necessary nutrients for a healthy life.
2. What Foods Do Squirrels Eat in the Wild?
In their natural habitat, squirrels have a diverse diet that changes with the seasons. They are resourceful foragers, adept at finding and storing food.
2.1. Nuts: A Squirrel’s Staple Food
Nuts are a primary food source for squirrels, providing essential fats and proteins. Acorns, walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts are among their favorites. The process of cracking open nuts also helps squirrels maintain their dental health by preventing their teeth from overgrowing, as noted by wildlife experts at FOODS.EDU.VN.
2.2. Seeds: Small but Mighty
Seeds are another crucial component of a squirrel’s diet, offering a concentrated source of energy. Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and various tree seeds are commonly consumed. According to the Journal of Wildlife Management, seeds are particularly important during the fall and winter months when other food sources are limited.
2.3. Fruits: Nature’s Sweet Treat
Squirrels enjoy a variety of fruits, including berries, apples, and grapes. Fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to their overall health. A study by the USDA indicates that fruits are also a good source of hydration, which is especially important during dry seasons.
2.4. Vegetables: Greens for Good Health
Leafy greens, vegetables, and other garden produce can supplement a squirrel’s diet. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. According to research from the National Wildlife Federation, squirrels often forage for vegetables in gardens and parks, especially when natural food sources are scarce.
2.5. Fungi: A Forest Delicacy
Squirrels also consume fungi, including mushrooms and other types of edible fungi. These can provide additional nutrients and variety to their diet. Experts at the Mycological Society of America note that certain fungi species are a significant food source for squirrels in forested areas.
2.6. Other Natural Foods
Squirrels also eat roots, bulbs, bark, and grains to supplement their nutritional intake. These items can provide additional minerals and roughage, which are essential for their digestive health. According to FOODS.EDU.VN, a varied diet ensures that squirrels receive all the nutrients they need to thrive in their natural environment.
3. Squirrel’s Favorite Foods: A Detailed List
Understanding what squirrels love to eat can help you create a squirrel-friendly environment in your garden or simply appreciate their dietary preferences.
3.1. Nuts: The Ultimate Squirrel Treat
Nuts are arguably the most beloved food of squirrels. They are nutritious, energy-rich, and satisfying to chew.
| Type of Nut | Nutritional Benefits | Why Squirrels Love Them |
|---|---|---|
| Acorns | High in fats and carbohydrates | Abundant in many areas, easy to store |
| Walnuts | Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids | Rich flavor, good for brain health |
| Pecans | Rich in antioxidants and minerals | Sweet taste, easy to crack open |
| Hazelnuts | Good source of vitamin E and fiber | Smooth texture, highly palatable |
| Almonds | High in protein and calcium | Crunchy texture, promotes dental health |
3.2. Seeds: Tiny Powerhouses
Seeds are packed with nutrients and provide squirrels with a quick energy boost.
| Type of Seed | Nutritional Benefits | Why Squirrels Love Them |
|---|---|---|
| Sunflower Seeds | High in vitamin E and healthy fats | Easy to find, readily available |
| Pumpkin Seeds | Rich in zinc and magnesium | Delicious flavor, good for immune support |
| Pine Nuts | Excellent source of iron and protein | Unique taste, highly nutritious |
| Bird Seeds | Mix of various seeds, balanced nutrition | Readily available in gardens and feeders |
3.3. Fruits: Sweet and Nutritious
Fruits offer essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to a squirrel’s diet.
| Type of Fruit | Nutritional Benefits | Why Squirrels Love Them |
|---|---|---|
| Berries | High in antioxidants and vitamin C | Sweet and tangy flavor |
| Apples | Good source of fiber and vitamin K | Crunchy texture, readily available in orchards |
| Grapes | Rich in vitamins and antioxidants | Juicy and sweet |
| Stone Fruits (Peaches, Plums) | Good source of vitamins A and C | Soft texture, easy to eat |
3.4. Vegetables: Greens and More
Vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a well-rounded diet.
| Type of Vegetable | Nutritional Benefits | Why Squirrels Love Them |
|---|---|---|
| Leafy Greens (Spinach, Lettuce) | High in vitamins A and K | Readily available in gardens |
| Carrots | Good source of beta-carotene and fiber | Crunchy texture, sweet taste |
| Broccoli | Rich in vitamin C and fiber | Provides essential nutrients |
| Corn | High in carbohydrates and fiber | Sweet and filling |
3.5. Fungi: A Woodland Treat
Squirrels also enjoy various types of fungi, which can provide additional nutrients and variety to their diet.
| Type of Fungus | Nutritional Benefits | Why Squirrels Love Them |
|---|---|---|
| Mushrooms | Good source of vitamin D and B vitamins | Earthy flavor, unique texture |
| Truffles | Rich in antioxidants and minerals | Distinctive aroma, highly palatable |
4. What Nuts Do Squirrels Eat? A Nutty Overview
Nuts are a dietary cornerstone for squirrels, providing essential fats, proteins, and energy.
4.1. Acorns: The King of Squirrel Foods
Acorns are a staple for squirrels in many regions. They are high in fats and carbohydrates, making them an excellent energy source.
4.2. Walnuts: Brain Food for Squirrels
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health. Squirrels love the rich flavor and satisfying crunch of walnuts.
4.3. Pecans: A Sweet and Nutritious Treat
Pecans are known for their sweet taste and high antioxidant content. They are easy for squirrels to crack open and enjoy.
4.4. Hazelnuts: A Smooth and Palatable Choice
Hazelnuts are a good source of vitamin E and fiber. Their smooth texture and delicious flavor make them a favorite among squirrels.
4.5. Almonds: Crunchy and Nutritious
Almonds are high in protein and calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth. The crunchy texture also helps keep squirrels’ teeth in good shape.
4.6. Beech Nuts: A Seasonal Delight
Beech nuts are a seasonal treat that squirrels enjoy in the fall. They are rich in fats and provide a good source of energy for the winter months.
4.7. Pine Nuts: A Forest Delicacy
Pine nuts are an excellent source of iron and protein. Squirrels often seek them out in forested areas, adding variety to their diet.
4.8. Macadamia Nuts: A Luxurious Treat (Use Sparingly)
Macadamia nuts are high in fat and calories, so they should be given to squirrels sparingly. While they enjoy the taste, moderation is key to prevent health issues.
4.9. Nutritional Value of Nuts for Squirrels
| Nut Type | Calories per 100g | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorns | 519 | 6.3 | 33 | 48 |
| Walnuts | 654 | 14 | 65 | 14 |
| Pecans | 691 | 9.2 | 72 | 14 |
| Hazelnuts | 628 | 15 | 61 | 17 |
| Almonds | 579 | 21 | 50 | 22 |
| Beech Nuts | 573 | 19 | 42 | 34 |
| Pine Nuts | 673 | 14 | 68 | 13 |
| Macadamia Nuts | 718 | 7.9 | 76 | 14 |
4.10. Nuts with or Without Shells?
Squirrels can eat nuts with or without their shells. Cracking open nuts provides them with exercise and helps sharpen their teeth. However, providing shelled nuts can be more convenient and less messy for those feeding squirrels in their gardens.
5. Do Red and Gray Squirrels Eat the Same Thing?
Red and gray squirrels have similar dietary needs and preferences, but there are slight differences in their foraging habits and food storage techniques.
5.1. Similarities in Diet
Both red and gray squirrels eat nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, and occasional insects or eggs. According to a study in the Canadian Journal of Zoology, the primary difference lies in their habitat and the availability of specific food sources in those habitats.
5.2. Differences in Foraging and Memory
One notable difference between red and gray squirrels is their memory. Gray squirrels are known for their excellent spatial memory, allowing them to remember where they buried their food caches. Red squirrels, on the other hand, are more forgetful, which can lead to them losing their stashes to other squirrels or animals.
5.3. Impact of Habitat on Diet
The diet of red and gray squirrels can also be influenced by their habitat. Red squirrels are more commonly found in coniferous forests, where they feed on pine cones and seeds. Gray squirrels are more adaptable and can thrive in various environments, including deciduous forests, parks, and urban areas, where they have access to a wider range of food sources.
5.4. Food Preferences by Region
| Food Type | Red Squirrels (Coniferous Forests) | Gray Squirrels (Deciduous Forests/Urban Areas) |
|---|---|---|
| Nuts | Pine nuts, hazelnuts | Acorns, walnuts, pecans |
| Seeds | Pine seeds, conifer seeds | Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds |
| Fruits | Berries, tree fruits | Apples, grapes, berries |
| Fungi | Forest fungi | Garden mushrooms |
5.5. Adapting to Available Resources
Both red and gray squirrels are highly adaptable and will adjust their diet based on the available resources. This flexibility allows them to thrive in different environments and cope with seasonal changes in food availability.
6. Foods Squirrels Avoid: What Not to Feed Squirrels
While squirrels are not picky eaters, there are certain foods they tend to avoid due to taste, toxicity, or digestive issues. Knowing what to avoid can help you provide a safe and healthy diet for squirrels.
6.1. Flower Bulbs: A No-Go for Squirrels
Squirrels generally avoid certain flower bulbs, such as allium, daffodil, snowdrop, and hyacinth. These bulbs contain compounds that are unpalatable or toxic to squirrels.
6.2. Spicy Foods: Squirrels Can’t Handle the Heat
Squirrels dislike spicy foods, particularly those containing chili peppers. The heat and spiciness are something they cannot tolerate. Many gardeners use chili flakes as a natural deterrent to keep squirrels away from bird feeders, as birds are unaffected by the spice.
6.3. Raw Onions and Garlic: Pungent Repellents
Raw onions and garlic are another food that squirrels typically avoid due to their strong, pungent odor and taste. These foods can also cause digestive upset in squirrels.
6.4. Salty Foods: Unhealthy and Harmful
Squirrels should not be fed salty foods, such as salted nuts or chips. High salt intake can lead to dehydration, kidney problems, and other health issues. It’s essential to provide unsalted nuts and seeds for their safety.
6.5. Processed Foods: Empty Calories
Processed foods like bread, crackers, and sugary snacks offer little nutritional value and can lead to obesity and other health problems in squirrels. These foods should be avoided in favor of more natural, nutrient-rich options.
6.6. Other Foods to Avoid
| Food | Why Squirrels Avoid It | Health Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Citrus Fruits (Lemons, Limes) | High acidity, unpleasant taste | Digestive upset |
| Chocolate | Contains theobromine, toxic to squirrels | Toxicity, heart problems |
| Avocado | Contains persin, mildly toxic | Digestive upset |
| Milk | Squirrels are lactose intolerant | Digestive issues |
7. Special Squirrel Food: Formulated for Health and Nutrition
To ensure the squirrels in your garden receive a balanced and nutritious diet, consider offering specially formulated squirrel food.
7.1. What is Special Squirrel Food?
Special squirrel feeds are designed to provide a balanced mix of nutrients that squirrels need to thrive. These feeds typically contain a variety of nuts, seeds, grains, and other ingredients that mimic their natural diet.
7.2. Ingredients in Special Squirrel Food
Common ingredients in special squirrel food include:
- Maize (corn)
- Sunflower seeds
- Wheat
- Oats
- Peanuts (in moderation)
- Dried fruits
- Vegetable pieces
7.3. Benefits of Using Special Squirrel Food
- Balanced Nutrition: Provides a mix of essential nutrients.
- Convenience: Easy to offer a consistent food source.
- Attraction: Attracts squirrels to a specific feeding area.
- Health Support: Promotes overall health and well-being.
7.4. Where to Buy Special Squirrel Food
Special squirrel food is available at many pet stores, garden centers, and online retailers. Look for reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients. FOODS.EDU.VN recommends checking out local suppliers for the best options.
7.5. How to Feed Squirrels Special Food
- Squirrel Feeders: Use squirrel feeders to keep the food clean and dry.
- Placement: Place feeders in a safe location away from predators.
- Quantity: Provide a reasonable amount of food to avoid overfeeding.
- Freshness: Keep the food fresh and replace it regularly.
8. How to Create a Squirrel-Friendly Garden
Creating a squirrel-friendly garden involves providing a habitat that meets their needs for food, water, and shelter.
8.1. Planting Squirrel-Friendly Trees and Shrubs
Plant trees and shrubs that produce nuts, seeds, and fruits. Some excellent choices include oak trees (for acorns), hazelnut trees, fruit trees (apple, pear), and berry bushes.
8.2. Providing a Water Source
Squirrels need access to fresh water, especially during dry periods. Provide a shallow dish or bird bath with clean water.
8.3. Creating Shelter and Nesting Sites
Squirrels need safe places to nest and hide from predators. Provide nesting boxes or allow natural cavities in trees to remain.
8.4. Avoiding Pesticides and Herbicides
Pesticides and herbicides can be harmful to squirrels and other wildlife. Use natural gardening methods to protect their health.
8.5. Building a Squirrel Feeding Station
Set up a dedicated feeding station with squirrel feeders filled with nuts, seeds, and special squirrel food. This will encourage squirrels to stay in your garden and provide them with a reliable food source.
8.6. Adding a Squirrel Obstacle Course
Consider adding squirrel playground or obstacle course to keep squirrels entertained, It will bring them endless entertainment.
8.7. Making Gardens Safe
Ensure safety by building fence around garden. Clear any dangerous object for squirrel as well.
8.8. Monitoring Squirrel Health
Keep an eye on the health of the squirrels in your garden. If you notice any signs of illness or injury, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator.
9. The Nutritional Needs of Squirrels: A Detailed Breakdown
Understanding the specific nutritional needs of squirrels is essential for ensuring their health and well-being.
9.1. Protein: Building Blocks for Growth
Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues. Squirrels need a diet that is approximately 16-20% protein.
9.2. Fats: Energy and Insulation
Fats provide energy and help insulate squirrels during cold weather. A diet containing 25-30% fat is ideal.
9.3. Carbohydrates: Quick Energy Source
Carbohydrates provide a quick source of energy for squirrels. A diet with 30-40% carbohydrates is recommended.
9.4. Vitamins and Minerals: Essential for Health
Vitamins and minerals are essential for overall health and immune function. Squirrels need a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium, and phosphorus.
9.5. Water: Hydration is Key
Water is essential for hydration and proper bodily function. Squirrels need access to fresh water at all times.
9.6. Nutritional Requirements by Squirrel Type
| Nutrient | Eastern Gray Squirrel | Red Squirrel | Flying Squirrel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 16-20% | 18-22% | 20-24% |
| Fats | 25-30% | 22-28% | 20-26% |
| Carbohydrates | 30-40% | 35-45% | 30-40% |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Balanced mix | Balanced mix | Balanced mix |
| Water | Constant access | Constant access | Constant access |
9.7. Adjusting Diet for Seasonal Changes
Adjust squirrel diets based on seasonal changes.
9.8. Signs of Nutritional Deficiency
Recognize the signs of nutritional deficiency in squirrels.
9.9. Consulting Wildlife Experts
Consult wildlife experts for personalized advice.
10. Common Questions About What Squirrels Eat (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about what squirrels eat, providing quick and informative answers.
10.1. Can squirrels eat peanuts?
Yes, squirrels can eat peanuts, but they are not the most nutritious option. Peanuts are low in calcium and high in phosphorus, which can lead to metabolic bone disease if consumed in large quantities. Offer peanuts in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
10.2. Is it safe to feed squirrels bread?
No, it is not safe to feed squirrels bread. Bread offers little nutritional value and can lead to obesity and other health problems. It’s best to avoid bread and offer more nutritious options like nuts, seeds, and fruits.
10.3. What is the best food to attract squirrels to my garden?
The best foods to attract squirrels to your garden include nuts (especially walnuts and pecans), sunflower seeds, and special squirrel food mixes. Place these items in a squirrel feeder or a designated feeding area.
10.4. Can squirrels eat chocolate?
No, squirrels should not eat chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to squirrels and can cause heart problems and other health issues.
10.5. Do squirrels eat bird eggs?
Yes, squirrels are opportunistic omnivores and may eat bird eggs if other food sources are scarce. However, this is not a common part of their diet, and they primarily rely on plant-based foods.
10.6. Can squirrels eat cheese?
Squirrels can eat small amounts of cheese, but it is not a natural part of their diet and should not be offered regularly. Cheese is high in fat and salt, which can be harmful to squirrels in large quantities.
10.7. Is it okay to give squirrels salted nuts?
No, you should never give squirrels salted nuts. High salt intake can lead to dehydration, kidney problems, and other health issues. Always offer unsalted nuts and seeds.
10.8. Do squirrels need water?
Yes, squirrels need access to fresh water, especially during dry periods. Provide a shallow dish or bird bath with clean water in your garden.
10.9. Can squirrels eat pet food?
Squirrels can eat pet food, but it is not ideal. Pet food is often formulated for the specific nutritional needs of dogs or cats and may not provide the right balance of nutrients for squirrels. Offer more natural and appropriate foods like nuts, seeds, and fruits.
10.10. What should I do if I find an injured squirrel?
If you find an injured squirrel, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal rescue organization. They will be able to provide the appropriate care and treatment for the squirrel.
Understanding what squirrels eat and how to provide them with a balanced diet is essential for their health and well-being. FOODS.EDU.VN offers a wealth of information on squirrel nutrition and how to create a squirrel-friendly environment in your garden.
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