What Is the Favorite Food of a Squirrel?

Squirrels have diverse palates that extend beyond the typical nuts and seeds, as explained by FOODS.EDU.VN. Their preferences include a mix of plant-based and animal-based foods, along with the occasional human treat. Discovering what squirrels enjoy eating can improve your experience with these furry friends and promote their health. To satisfy your curiosity about squirrel food and nutrition, keep reading!

1. Understanding a Squirrel’s Natural Diet

Most people associate squirrels with nuts and seeds, but their diet is actually quite varied. In their natural habitat, without human intervention, squirrels enjoy a wide range of foods.

1.1 Plant-Based Delights

Plant-based foods make up the majority of a squirrel’s diet. These include:

Nuts: Walnuts, hickory nuts, beechnuts, and acorns are favorites.
Seeds: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and other types of seeds provide essential nutrients.
Tree Flowers and Buds: Squirrels enjoy the blossoms and buds of various trees like butternut, cedar, dogwood, elm, hackberry, hemlock, hickory, maple, mulberry, pine, and spruce.
Fruits: Apples, grapes, strawberries, and other fruits offer a sweet treat.
Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, squash, and other vegetables provide vitamins and minerals.
Mushrooms and Fungi: These can be a supplementary part of their diet.

1.2 Animal-Based Snacks

While plants are their primary food source, squirrels also consume some animal-based materials, particularly during certain times of the year when they need extra protein. These can include:

Insects: Squirrels will eat insects like grasshoppers, caterpillars, and beetles.
Amphibians: Small frogs and salamanders can be part of their diet.
Small Mammals: Occasionally, they might eat very small mammals.
Bird Eggs and Nestlings: They sometimes raid bird nests for eggs or young birds.
Bones: Squirrels may gnaw on bones for calcium and other minerals.

According to research from the University of California, Berkeley, squirrels need a balanced diet that includes both plant and animal sources to maintain optimal health.

2. Human Interaction and Its Impact on Squirrel Diets

When squirrels interact with humans, their diet often expands to include foods they wouldn’t typically find in the wild. Some of these foods can be beneficial, while others should be given in moderation or avoided altogether.

2.1 Foods that are Good for Squirrels

Peanuts: A common choice, but should be given in moderation due to their high fat content.
Pecans: A healthy and tasty nut for squirrels.
Pistachios: A good source of nutrients, but avoid the red dyed ones.
Grapes: A sweet and hydrating treat.
Corn: Can be given in small amounts, though it doesn’t offer significant nutritional value.
Squash, Zucchini, and Pumpkin: These vegetables provide vitamins and minerals.
Strawberries: A delicious and nutritious fruit.
Carrots: A crunchy and healthy vegetable.
Apples: A good source of fiber and vitamins.
Sunflower Seeds: A favorite among squirrels and a good source of energy.

2.2 Foods to Avoid

Raw Peanuts: May contain a fungus that can be harmful to squirrels.
Human Junk Food (Candy, Chocolate, Chips): These offer poor nutritional value and can be detrimental to their health.
Bread: Provides little nutritional value and can cause digestive issues.
Niger/Nyjer Seeds: Squirrels generally do not like these seeds.

According to a study by the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota, offering squirrels a balanced diet is essential for their well-being.

3. The Absolute Best Foods for Squirrels: Nuts in Their Shells

The best way to feed squirrels is by providing nuts in their shells. This offers several benefits:

Natural Diet: Nuts are a natural part of a squirrel’s diet, providing essential fats, proteins, and nutrients.
Dental Health: Gnawing on the shells helps keep their teeth healthy. Squirrels’ teeth grow continuously, and they need to gnaw to wear them down.
Mental Stimulation: Cracking open nuts provides mental stimulation and keeps them engaged.

3.1 Types of Nuts to Offer

Walnuts: A great source of nutrients and energy.
Hickory Nuts: A favorite among squirrels.
White Oak Acorns: Preferred over red oak acorns due to their lower tannin content.
Beechnuts: Another excellent choice that squirrels enjoy.

3.2 Where to Find Shelled Nuts

Shelled nuts are not always readily available in stores. A great option is to gather them from nearby forests or parks. Make sure to collect them from areas where it is permitted and to wash them before offering them to the squirrels.

4. Squirrel Feeding Guide: What to Offer and When

To ensure you’re providing the best care for the squirrels in your area, here’s a comprehensive feeding guide:

Food	Quality	Information
Acorn, Red Oak (high tannin)	Okay	High tannin nuts are usually eaten only in desperate times.
Acorn, White Oak (low tannin)	Excellent	Preferred over high tannin acorns.
Beechnut	Excellent	Leave in shell to promote gnawing.
Bread	Poor	Do not feed.
Butternut	Excellent	Leave in shell to promote gnawing.
Corn	Okay	Feed in small amounts only. Corn is a squirrel favorite, but fails to offer quality nutrition.
Fruits (Apple, cantaloupe, grapes, strawberries, watermelon)	Excellent	Offer small quantities of non-citrus fruit.
Hazelnuts	Excellent	Leave in shell to promote gnawing.
Human junk food (Candy, chocolate, chips)	Poor	Poor nutritional value.
Hickory Nuts	Excellent	A favorite for squirrels. Leave in shell to promote gnawing.
Niger/Nyjer® Seeds	Poor	Squirrels do not like niger. Do not feed.
Peanut Butter	Okay	A favorite, but should only be provided in moderation.
Peanuts, Raw	Dangerous	Raw peanuts may contain a fungus that can hurt squirrels.
Peanuts, Roasted	Okay	Unsalted and only in small amounts.
Pecans	Excellent	Shelled or unshelled are fine.
Pistachio	Okay	White pistachios only. Do not give them red pistachios.
Pumpkins and Pumpkin Seeds	Okay	Feel free to leave your Jack O’Lantern “guts” for squirrels. They will often chew on the pumpkin shell too.
Sunflower seeds	Okay	Although squirrels love sunflower seeds, provide them in small amounts only.
Vegetables (Broccoli, carrots, peas, yellow squash, zucchini)	Excellent	Generally an excellent source of nutrition.
Walnut, Black or American	Excellent	Leave in shell to promote gnawing.
Water	Excellent	Squirrels need water daily. Keep it fresh and unfrozen.

According to the National Wildlife Federation, understanding what to feed squirrels is essential for their health and the balance of local ecosystems.

5. Setting Up a Squirrel Feeder

If you want to provide a dedicated feeding spot for squirrels, there are several options available.

5.1 Types of Feeders

Squirrel Feeders: These are specifically designed for squirrels and often include features that make it challenging for birds to access the food.
Bird Feeders as Bait: Using a bird feeder as bait can draw squirrels away from your primary bird feeders. Mesh feeders and hopper feeders with wide seed trays are particularly useful.

5.2 Tips for Setting Up a Feeder

Location: Place the feeder close to a tree to make it easy for squirrels to access.
Accessibility: Ensure the feeder is easy for squirrels to climb to.
Avoidance: Don’t use feeders with baffles or weight-activated shut-offs, as these will deter squirrels.
Food Choice: Pick foods that squirrels love, such as nuts and seeds.

5.3 Alternative Feeding Options

Seed Table: Install a seed table where you can place food for the squirrels.
Scattering Food: Simply scatter their favorite treats in a few choice areas near your regular bird feeders.

6. The Importance of Water

Squirrels need access to fresh water daily, just like any other animal.

6.1 Providing Water

Water Bowl: Place a shallow dish of water near the feeding area.
Bird Bath: A bird bath can also serve as a water source for squirrels.
Ensure Freshness: Keep the water clean and unfrozen, especially during the winter months.

7. Is It Safe to Feed Squirrels?

While squirrels are generally safe to feed, there are a few things to keep in mind.

7.1 Potential Dangers

Excitement: Squirrels may get excited when you are refilling the feeder and jump on you.
Parasites: Squirrels can carry fleas, mites, and other parasites that could be transferred to you if those bugs linger on the feeder.

7.2 Precautions

Hygiene: Wash your hands after handling feeders or food for squirrels.
Observation: Observe squirrels from a distance to avoid startling them.

8. Legal Considerations

In some areas, it may be illegal to intentionally feed squirrels.

8.1 Reasons for Restrictions

Dependency: To keep wildlife from becoming dependent on humans.
Protection: To protect people from being bitten or otherwise attacked by squirrels.
Population Control: To keep the squirrel population in check, preventing them from becoming a public nuisance.

8.2 Checking Local Laws

State and Municipality Rules: Check the specific rules for your state and municipality.
Public vs. Private Land: Some areas may limit feeding squirrels on public land but not on privately owned property.
Game Officer Consultation: Conversations with a local game officer may help you understand how such a law applies to you.

9. Preventing Nuisances

If squirrels become too tame and too used to your presence, they can become nuisances.

9.1 Avoiding Over-Taming

Natural Fear: Without their natural fear of you as a potential predator, they’re less likely to think twice before invading your space.
Nesting: This is most likely to happen when they decide their outdoor nests aren’t comfortable enough and try moving into your attic.

9.2 Tips to Keep Squirrels at Bay

Moderate Feeding: Avoid providing excessive amounts of food.
Consistent Boundaries: Maintain a consistent distance to reinforce their natural fear.

10. Squirrel-Friendly Bird Feeders

Looking to keep squirrels away from your bird feeders? Aside from investing in squirrel-resistant bird feeders, one of the simplest options is to have a feeder specifically dedicated to squirrels!

10.1 Perky-Pet® Mesh Line of Feeders

The Perky-Pet® mesh line of feeders are particularly useful as dual bird and squirrel feeders.

All-Metal Construction: These feeders can’t be chewed through by a squirrel.
Metal-Mesh Design: Also keeps a squirrel from emptying the feeder too quickly.

10.2 Simple Hopper Feeders

Simple hopper feeders with wide seed trays also give a squirrel good access to food inside. Some even come with suet-cake bins to provide further nutrients.

10.3 Helping Squirrels Access Bait Feeders

To help a squirrel get to a bait feeder, you should check out the guidelines on our Squirrels 101 and reverse that anti-squirrel advice.

Keep a squirrel friendly feeder close to a tree.
Make it easy for the squirrel to climb to the bait feeder.
Don’t use a feeder that has a baffle or weight-activated shut-off.
Pick foods that squirrels will love.

11. Nutritional Needs of Squirrels

Understanding the nutritional needs of squirrels is crucial for providing them with a balanced diet.

11.1 Macronutrients

Protein: Essential for growth and repair. Sources include nuts, seeds, and insects.
Fats: Provide energy and support various bodily functions. Found in nuts and seeds.
Carbohydrates: Offer a quick source of energy. Grains and fruits are good sources.

11.2 Micronutrients

Vitamins: Important for overall health. Found in fruits and vegetables.
Minerals: Essential for bone health and other bodily functions. Sources include nuts, seeds, and bones.

11.3 Seasonal Variations

Squirrels’ nutritional needs can vary depending on the season.

Spring and Summer: During breeding season, they need more protein for growth and development.
Fall: They need more fats and carbohydrates to prepare for winter.
Winter: They rely on stored food and need a diet that provides sustained energy.

12. The Impact of Food on Squirrel Behavior

The type of food available to squirrels can significantly impact their behavior.

12.1 Foraging Behavior

Variety: A varied diet encourages natural foraging behaviors.
Storage: Squirrels will often bury nuts and seeds for later consumption, contributing to seed dispersal and forest regeneration.

12.2 Social Behavior

Competition: Food scarcity can lead to increased competition among squirrels.
Cooperation: In some cases, squirrels may cooperate to find and access food sources.

12.3 Habituation

Taming: Consistent feeding can lead to habituation, where squirrels become less fearful of humans.
Dependence: Over-reliance on human-provided food can reduce their natural foraging skills.

13. Common Myths About Squirrel Diets

There are several misconceptions about what squirrels eat.

13.1 Myth: Squirrels Only Eat Nuts

Reality: As discussed, squirrels have a diverse diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, insects, and more.

13.2 Myth: Squirrels Can Eat Anything

Reality: Certain foods, like raw peanuts and junk food, can be harmful to squirrels.

13.3 Myth: Feeding Squirrels Is Always Good

Reality: While providing food can help squirrels, it’s essential to do so responsibly to avoid over-taming and dependence.

14. How to Attract Squirrels to Your Yard

If you enjoy watching squirrels and want to attract them to your yard, here are some tips.

14.1 Providing Food

Feeders: Set up dedicated squirrel feeders with their favorite foods.
Natural Sources: Plant trees and shrubs that provide nuts, seeds, and fruits.

14.2 Creating Habitat

Trees: Ensure there are plenty of trees for squirrels to climb and nest in.
Water Source: Provide a water source like a bird bath or shallow dish.

14.3 Avoiding Hazards

Pesticides: Avoid using pesticides that can harm squirrels and other wildlife.
Predator Protection: Provide cover to protect squirrels from predators like cats and hawks.

15. Helping Injured or Orphaned Squirrels

If you find an injured or orphaned squirrel, it’s essential to take appropriate action.

15.1 Contacting Professionals

Wildlife Rehabilitator: Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
Veterinarian: If the squirrel is injured, take it to a veterinarian for treatment.

15.2 Providing Temporary Care

Warmth: Keep the squirrel warm by placing it in a box with a soft cloth.
Hydration: Offer a small amount of water using a dropper.
Avoid Feeding: Do not attempt to feed the squirrel without professional guidance.

16. Squirrels and Gardening: A Balancing Act

Squirrels can sometimes be a nuisance in the garden, but there are ways to coexist peacefully.

16.1 Protecting Plants

Fencing: Use fencing to protect vulnerable plants.
Netting: Cover fruits and vegetables with netting to prevent squirrels from eating them.
Repellents: Use natural repellents like pepper spray or garlic to deter squirrels.

16.2 Providing Alternatives

Dedicated Feeding Area: Set up a dedicated feeding area away from the garden to distract squirrels.
Plant Squirrel-Friendly Plants: Plant trees and shrubs that provide nuts and seeds to encourage them to forage elsewhere.

17. The Role of Squirrels in the Ecosystem

Squirrels play an important role in the ecosystem.

17.1 Seed Dispersal

Burying Nuts: Squirrels bury nuts and seeds, which can germinate and grow into new plants.
Forest Regeneration: This process helps with forest regeneration and maintains biodiversity.

17.2 Food Source

Predator Prey: Squirrels serve as a food source for various predators, including hawks, owls, and foxes.
Ecosystem Balance: Their presence helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

18. Studying Squirrels: Research and Conservation

Researching squirrels can provide valuable insights into their behavior, ecology, and conservation needs.

18.1 Research Areas

Dietary Studies: Understanding their dietary preferences and nutritional needs.
Behavioral Studies: Studying their foraging, social, and reproductive behaviors.
Population Studies: Monitoring squirrel populations and their distribution.

18.2 Conservation Efforts

Habitat Preservation: Protecting and restoring squirrel habitats.
Education: Educating the public about the importance of squirrels and how to coexist with them.
Rehabilitation: Supporting wildlife rehabilitation centers that care for injured and orphaned squirrels.

19. Squirrels in Culture and Folklore

Squirrels have appeared in various cultural and folklore traditions.

19.1 Symbolism

Resourcefulness: Squirrels are often seen as symbols of resourcefulness and preparation.
Playfulness: They are also associated with playfulness and energy.

19.2 Folklore

Stories and Legends: Squirrels feature in various stories and legends, often as clever and mischievous characters.
Cultural Significance: Their presence in folklore reflects their close relationship with humans and their environment.

20. Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels’ Favorite Foods

Here are some frequently asked questions about what squirrels like to eat:

20.1 What is the best food to give squirrels?

The best food to give squirrels is nuts in their shells, such as walnuts, hickory nuts, beechnuts, and acorns. This provides them with essential nutrients and helps keep their teeth healthy.

20.2 Can squirrels eat peanut butter?

Yes, squirrels can eat peanut butter, but it should be given in moderation due to its high fat content.

20.3 Is corn good for squirrels?

Corn can be given in small amounts, but it doesn’t offer significant nutritional value for squirrels.

20.4 What fruits and vegetables do squirrels like?

Squirrels enjoy fruits like apples, grapes, and strawberries, as well as vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and squash.

20.5 Can squirrels eat chocolate?

No, chocolate is not good for squirrels and should be avoided due to its poor nutritional value and potential toxicity.

20.6 Is it safe to feed squirrels raw peanuts?

No, raw peanuts may contain a fungus that can be harmful to squirrels.

20.7 What should I do if I find an injured squirrel?

Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for guidance on how to care for the injured squirrel.

20.8 How can I keep squirrels out of my bird feeders?

Use squirrel-resistant bird feeders or provide a separate feeding area for squirrels with their favorite foods.

20.9 Is it legal to feed squirrels in my area?

Check the specific rules for your state and municipality regarding feeding squirrels, as some areas may have restrictions.

20.10 Do squirrels need water?

Yes, squirrels need access to fresh water daily. Provide a shallow dish of water or a bird bath for them to drink from.

Conclusion: Nurturing Squirrels with Knowledge

Understanding what squirrels enjoy eating is crucial for providing them with a balanced diet and fostering a harmonious relationship with these fascinating creatures. From nuts and seeds to fruits and vegetables, offering a variety of foods in moderation can contribute to their health and well-being. Remember to avoid harmful items like junk food and raw peanuts, and always provide access to fresh water.

For more in-depth knowledge about squirrel diets, feeding tips, and how to create a squirrel-friendly environment, visit FOODS.EDU.VN. Our website offers a wealth of information, expert advice, and resources to help you become a knowledgeable and responsible caregiver for the squirrels in your area. Explore articles, guides, and tips to enhance your understanding and connection with these delightful creatures. Contact us at 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States, or via Whatsapp at +1 845-452-9600. Discover more at foods.edu.vn and start your journey towards better understanding and caring for squirrels today!