What Do You Feed Pet Squirrels?

You can feed pet squirrels a variety of nuts, seeds, and fruits, but it’s important to offer a balanced diet. Always provide fresh water. Avoid processed foods and anything too salty or sugary. Remember, wild squirrels are good at finding their own food.

When feeding squirrels, think about what they’d find in nature. Unsalted nuts like walnuts and almonds are a good choice. Fresh fruits like apples and berries can also be a treat. It’s best to offer these in moderation to avoid upsetting their digestive system. Healthy options are key.

• Offer unsalted nuts and seeds.
• Include fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Always provide clean, fresh water.
• Avoid salty, sugary, or processed foods.
• Don’t overfeed; let them forage naturally.

Ready to learn more about keeping your backyard visitors happy and healthy? Let’s get into the details of what makes a great squirrel snack.

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Feeding Your Furry Backyard Friends

So, you’re wondering what’s best to offer the adorable squirrels that visit your yard? It’s a common question for nature lovers! The good news is, you can provide them with treats that are both safe and healthy.

Think of their natural diet when choosing snacks. Squirrels in the wild forage for a wide range of items. Your goal is to mimic this with items you can easily find. We’re talking about things that are nutritious and won’t cause upset tummies.

The Squirrel’s Natural Diet: A Foundation

Squirrels are primarily omnivores. This means they eat both plants and animal matter. However, their diet leans heavily towards plant-based foods. This forms the basis of what you should offer.

Nuts and Seeds: The Staple

Nuts are a squirrel’s best friend. They are packed with fats and proteins, which squirrels need to store energy. However, not all nuts are created equal for your backyard visitors.

• Unsalted nuts are the way to go. Salt can be harmful to squirrels.
• Good choices include walnuts, pecans, and almonds.
• Acorns are a natural favorite, but they can be hard to find for many people.
• Sunflower seeds, especially the black oil variety, are also a popular choice.
• Avoid roasted or seasoned nuts, as these often contain unhealthy additives.

Fruits and Vegetables: The Treat

While nuts are a staple, fruits and vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. They should be given in moderation, though. Too much sugar can lead to health problems for squirrels.

• Apples (without the core and seeds) are a big hit.
• Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are great options.
• Grapes can be offered, but in very small quantities.
• Leafy greens such as kale and spinach are healthy additions.
• Carrots and broccoli are also generally safe vegetables.

What to Absolutely Avoid

Just as important as knowing what to feed squirrels is knowing what to keep away from them. Some human foods can be dangerous or even toxic.

The Danger Zone Foods

Processed foods are generally a no-go. They contain ingredients that squirrels aren’t meant to digest.

• Salty snacks like chips and pretzels are a definite no. High sodium levels are very bad for them.
• Sugary treats, candy, and baked goods can lead to obesity and diabetes in squirrels.
• Dairy products are hard for most wild animals to digest.
• Bread and crackers offer little nutritional value and can even cause digestive issues.
• Avocado is toxic to many animals, including squirrels.
• Onions and garlic can also be harmful.

Many experts agree that processed human foods can disrupt a squirrel’s delicate digestive system (National Institute of Health).

Water: The Essential Element

Never forget the importance of fresh water. Squirrels, like all living beings, need constant access to clean water, especially during warmer months.

A shallow dish filled with fresh water is perfect. Make sure it’s not too deep for them to accidentally fall into. Regularly clean the dish to prevent bacteria growth. Birds and other small animals will thank you for it too!

Portion Control: Less is More

It might be tempting to pile up a feast for your furry visitors, but overfeeding can actually do more harm than good.

When you provide too much food, squirrels can become dependent on handouts. This can reduce their natural foraging instincts. It can also attract unwanted pests to your yard. A few nuts or a small piece of fruit is usually plenty.

A Helpful Feeding Checklist

Here’s a quick rundown to keep your squirrel feeding habits on point:

• Offer a small amount of unsalted nuts.
• Include a tiny piece of safe fruit or vegetable.
• Always ensure fresh, clean water is available.
• Remove any uneaten food after a few hours.
• Never feed them anything salty or sugary.
• Observe their behavior; they usually know what they need!

By providing the right kinds of food in moderation, you can be a great help to your local squirrel population. You’ll be providing them with essential nutrients while enjoying the show!

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Conclusion

Feeding your backyard squirrels can be a delightful way to connect with nature. Remember, a balanced diet of unsalted nuts and seeds, with small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, is key. Always provide clean, fresh water and steer clear of processed, salty, or sugary human foods that can harm them. By offering these simple, natural treats in moderation, you support their health and encourage their natural foraging behaviors.

Ready to start? Grab a small bag of unsalted walnuts and a shallow dish for water, and enjoy watching your furry visitors thrive!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I feed squirrels?

It’s best to feed squirrels in moderation. A small handful of nuts once a day or every few days is usually enough. Overfeeding can make them dependent and reduce their natural foraging skills.

Can squirrels eat peanut butter?

While squirrels love peanut butter, it’s not ideal for their diet. Peanut butter is sticky and can get lodged in their throats. If you offer it, do so in a very small, dry amount, or better yet, stick to nuts.

What kind of water dish is best for squirrels?

Use a shallow, sturdy dish that won’t tip over easily. A plant saucer or a low-profile bird bath works well. Make sure it’s not too deep, so they can drink safely without the risk of falling in.

Can baby squirrels eat the same food as adult squirrels?

Baby squirrels still nursing should ideally be with their mother, who provides the correct nourishment. If you find an orphaned or injured baby squirrel, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. They can provide specialized care and feeding plans.

Should I worry about feeding squirrels too many nuts?

Yes, too many nuts can lead to an unbalanced diet because of their high fat content. Offer a variety of foods like a few nuts, a piece of apple, or some berries. Variety ensures they get a broader range of nutrients.