Squirrels are fascinating creatures that often frequent our backyards. Many people are curious about what is a squirrel’s favorite food and how to provide them with a balanced diet. While often associated with nuts and seeds, a squirrel’s diet is much more diverse and complex. This guide explores the nutritional needs of squirrels, their favorite foods, and how to safely and responsibly feed them.
Understanding the Squirrel Diet
Contrary to popular belief, squirrels don’t exclusively eat nuts and seeds. They are omnivores, consuming both plant-based and animal-based foods. The Eastern Gray Squirrel, for instance, supplements its plant-based diet with insects, amphibians, small mammals, bird eggs, young nestlings, and even bones.
However, plant matter constitutes the majority of their diet. In a natural setting, squirrels enjoy nuts, seeds, tree flowers, and tree buds from trees like butternut, cedar, dogwood, elm, hackberry, hemlock, hickory, maple, mulberry, pine, and spruce. They also consume mushrooms and fungi when available.
When humans interact with squirrels, their diet expands to include items that are sometimes beneficial and sometimes not. These additional foods may include peanuts, peanut butter, pecans, pistachios, grapes, corn, squash, zucchini, pumpkin, strawberries, carrots, apples, sunflower seeds, and even the occasional snack food.
Top Choices for Squirrels: Nuts and Seeds
While their diet is varied, certain nuts and seeds are indeed favorites and provide essential nutrients.
- Nuts in their shells: Walnuts, hickory nuts, white oak acorns, and beechnuts are excellent choices. Providing nuts in their shells also encourages healthy gnawing, which is crucial for maintaining their teeth.
- Sunflower seeds: Black oil sunflower seeds, commonly found in birdseed blends, are a great energy source, especially when in-shell nuts are unavailable.
What to Feed Squirrels: A Detailed Guide
Many people offer peanuts and corn to squirrels. While these are readily accepted, they aren’t the most nutritious options. Corn and peanuts can be part of a varied diet but shouldn’t be the primary food source.
So, what’s the absolute best food for squirrels? The answer lies in providing a balanced and varied diet.
| SQUIRREL FEEDING GUIDE |
|---|
| Food |
| Acorn, Red Oak (high tannin) |
| Acorn, White Oak (low tannin) |
| Beechnut |
| Bread |
| Butternut |
| Corn |
| Fruits (Apple, cantaloupe, grapes, strawberries, watermelon) |
| Hazelnuts |
| Human junk food (Candy, chocolate, chips) |
| Hickory Nuts |
| Niger/Nyjer® Seeds |
| Peanut Butter |
| Peanuts, Raw |
| Peanuts, Roasted |
| Pecans |
| Pistachio |
| Pumpkins and Pumpkin Seeds |
| Sunflower seeds |
| Vegetables (Broccoli, carrots, peas, yellow squash, zucchini) |
| Walnut, Black or American |
| Water |
Choosing the Right Feeder
If you’re looking to divert squirrels away from your bird feeders, providing a dedicated squirrel feeder is an effective strategy.
The Perky-Pet® mesh line of feeders is designed for both birds and squirrels. Made with durable metal construction, these feeders withstand gnawing and prevent squirrels from quickly emptying them.
Simple hopper feeders with wide seed trays also offer easy access to food. Some even include suet-cake bins for added nutrients.
To encourage squirrels to use a bait feeder:
- Place the feeder near a tree.
- Ensure easy access for climbing.
- Avoid feeders with baffles or weight-activated shut-offs.
- Fill the feeder with foods squirrels love.
Other options include seed tables or scattering treats in designated areas near bird feeders.
Safety and Legality of Feeding Squirrels
While generally safe, it’s crucial to remember that squirrels are wild animals. There’s a small risk of them becoming overly excited or carrying parasites.
It’s also important to be aware of local laws. Some areas prohibit intentionally feeding squirrels to prevent dependence on humans, protect people from bites, and control squirrel populations. Check your local regulations to ensure compliance.
Remember that overly tame squirrels can become nuisances, potentially seeking shelter in attics or other unwanted areas. Maintaining a healthy respect for their wild nature is essential.
Providing Water
Squirrels need access to fresh water daily. Ensure a clean and unfrozen water source is available, especially during colder months.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Feeding Squirrels
Understanding what is a squirrel’s favorite food is just the first step. By providing a varied and balanced diet, offering food in a safe and responsible manner, and being aware of local regulations, you can enjoy watching these fascinating creatures while ensuring their well-being. Whether you’re diverting them from bird feeders or simply being kind, your efforts will be appreciated.
