Have you ever been captivated by the acrobatic antics of a squirrel darting through your garden, burying treasures for a later date? These furry foragers bring a delightful dose of wildness to our urban and suburban lives. While it’s tempting to toss them a snack, understanding the best squirrel food and how to offer it responsibly is key to ensuring their well-being and avoiding unintended consequences. Squirrels are opportunistic omnivores, meaning their diet can vary greatly depending on availability. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to safely and nutritiously feeding squirrels, helping you create a healthy and harmonious relationship with these charming creatures. A balanced diet is just as crucial for squirrels as it is for humans, impacting their energy levels, immune system, and overall health.
What Squirrels Eat in the Wild: Their Natural Diet
Before we delve into the realm of supplemental feeding, let’s examine what constitutes a squirrel’s natural diet. In the wild, squirrels primarily feast on a variety of nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Acorns, walnuts, hickory nuts, and beechnuts are staple foods, providing essential fats and calories to sustain them through leaner times. Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and other seeds offer a concentrated source of vitamins and minerals. They will also supplement their diet with fruits like berries, apples, and pears when available. Vegetables such as corn, mushrooms, and squash can also be part of their menu. While less common, insects and even small animals may occasionally be consumed, providing a protein boost.
The availability of these foods fluctuates throughout the year. During the fall, squirrels engage in a frantic period of foraging and burying nuts for winter sustenance. In the spring and summer, they have access to a wider variety of fruits, vegetables, and insects. Their diet directly impacts their health and activity levels. A nutrient-rich diet supports a strong immune system, allowing them to resist disease. Adequate calorie intake provides the energy they need for climbing, foraging, and escaping predators. Proper nutrition is essential for healthy growth and reproduction, ensuring the continuation of future generations of squirrels.
The Best Foods to Offer Squirrels: A Detailed Breakdown
When choosing supplemental food for squirrels, aim to mimic their natural diet as closely as possible. Here’s a closer look at some of the best options:
Nuts
Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats and protein, making them a valuable addition to a squirrel’s diet. Walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, almonds, and even macadamia nuts (in moderation due to their high fat content) are all good choices. Always offer nuts raw and unsalted. Salt can be detrimental to their health, leading to dehydration and other complications.
Seeds
Sunflower seeds, especially black oil sunflower seeds, are a favorite among squirrels. They are packed with essential oils, vitamins, and minerals. Pumpkin seeds are another nutritious option, offering a good source of zinc and other micronutrients. You can also offer other seeds like flaxseeds or hemp seeds in smaller quantities.
Fruits and Vegetables
Supplementing their diet with fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and hydration. Safe fruit options include apples, grapes, berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries), and melon (watermelon, cantaloupe). Safe vegetable options include carrots, broccoli, squash, and corn (offer corn sparingly, as it is high in carbohydrates).
Commercial Squirrel Food Mixes
Pre-made squirrel food mixes can be a convenient option, but it’s crucial to choose a high-quality product. Look for mixes that primarily contain nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Avoid mixes that are packed with fillers like corn or unhealthy additives. Read the ingredient list carefully and opt for brands with transparent ingredient sourcing. While specific brand recommendations can vary, prioritize those with a focus on natural ingredients and minimal processing.
Foods to AVOID Feeding Squirrels
While squirrels are not picky eaters, certain foods are harmful and should be strictly avoided.
Why Certain Foods are Harmful
Salty foods are a major concern. Excessive salt intake can dehydrate squirrels and disrupt their delicate electrolyte balance. Processed foods are generally lacking in essential nutrients and often contain harmful additives, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives that can be detrimental to their health. Sugary foods, including candy and sweetened cereals, can contribute to dental problems and unhealthy weight gain. Chocolate is toxic to many animals, including squirrels, and should never be offered. Bread, while seemingly harmless, offers little nutritional value and can fill them up without providing essential vitamins and minerals. “Human junk food” in general should be avoided entirely.
The Dangers of Inappropriate Foods
Feeding squirrels inappropriate foods can lead to malnutrition, obesity, and a weakened immune system. It can also make them more susceptible to diseases and parasites.
How to Feed Squirrels Responsibly
The way you offer food to squirrels is just as important as what you feed them. Responsible feeding practices promote their health and minimize potential problems.
Feeding Methods
Consider using squirrel feeders designed specifically to accommodate their size and dexterity. These feeders can help prevent other animals from accessing the food. Platform feeders are another option, providing a stable surface for them to eat. Scattering food on the ground is generally discouraged, as it can attract rodents and other unwanted pests. Always provide a source of fresh, clean water, especially during hot weather.
Hygiene
Regularly clean feeders with soap and water to prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold. This is essential for preventing the spread of disease. Change the water frequently to keep it fresh and clean.
Quantity
Feeding squirrels in moderation is key. The goal is to supplement their natural diet, not replace it entirely. Adjust the amount of food you offer based on the season and squirrel activity. During the fall, they may need more food to prepare for winter. In the spring and summer, they may rely more on natural food sources.
Location
Choose a safe location for feeders, away from roads and potential predators like cats and dogs. Be considerate of your neighbors and avoid attracting unwanted pests to their properties.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Feeding Squirrels
Feeding squirrels can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits
Enjoying the antics and observing the behavior of squirrels can be a source of entertainment and relaxation. Feeding them can help them during times of food scarcity, especially during harsh winters. It can also be an educational experience for children, teaching them about wildlife and the importance of conservation.
Drawbacks
Feeding squirrels can attract other pests, such as rats and mice. It can also lead to dependence on humans for food, potentially altering their natural foraging behavior. Squirrels may cause property damage by chewing on structures or digging in gardens. Overpopulation and the spread of disease are also potential concerns.
Addressing Common Concerns and Questions
Many people have questions and concerns about feeding squirrels. Here are some common ones:
Will feeding squirrels make them dependent on me?
While they may become accustomed to the availability of food, squirrels are still resourceful foragers and will continue to seek out natural food sources.
How do I keep squirrels from raiding my bird feeders?
Offer squirrels their own dedicated feeding station away from bird feeders. You can also use squirrel-resistant bird feeders with cages or baffles.
Is it legal to feed squirrels in my area?
Check your local ordinances to ensure that feeding squirrels is permitted. Some areas may have restrictions due to concerns about overpopulation or property damage.
What if I find an injured or orphaned squirrel?
Contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance. They have the expertise and resources to care for injured or orphaned squirrels.
Conclusion
Feeding squirrels can be a delightful and educational experience, but it’s essential to do so responsibly. By providing a balanced and healthy diet, practicing good hygiene, and being mindful of potential drawbacks, you can create a harmonious relationship with these fascinating creatures.
Remember, the key to successful squirrel feeding is to mimic their natural diet as closely as possible and to offer food in moderation. Enjoy the presence of squirrels in your garden while being mindful of their well-being and the environment. Take the time to learn more about local wildlife and contribute to their conservation. By making informed choices, we can ensure that squirrels continue to thrive and bring joy to our lives for years to come. Consider planting native trees and shrubs that provide natural food sources for squirrels. Supporting local wildlife organizations also helps to protect their habitat and ensure their long-term survival. Feeding squirrels is not just about providing them with food; it’s about fostering a connection with nature and contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
