If you’ve been wondering whether to feed the squirrels in your garden, you’re not alone. Many people love watching these playful creatures and enjoy the idea of providing them with a tasty treat. While squirrels can be fun to observe and feeding them might seem harmless, it’s generally better to let them forage for their own food.
Feeding backyard squirrels can lead to some problems, such as them becoming dependent on human-provided food. This can take away their natural foraging skills, which are important for their survival. Instead of leaving out snacks, consider planting squirrel-friendly plants or creating a habitat that encourages them to find their own food.
By making your garden a welcoming place for squirrels, you can enjoy their antics without the risks that come with feeding them directly. Squirrels are resourceful animals, and they thrive best when they rely on their natural instincts.
Understanding Squirrel Nutrition
Knowing what squirrels eat can help you make informed choices about feeding them in your garden. It’s important to understand their natural diet, the best foods to offer, and what you should avoid giving them.
Natural Diet of Squirrels
Squirrels mainly eat a variety of plant-based foods. Their natural diet includes nuts, seeds, fruits, and some insects.
Common nuts that squirrels enjoy are:
- Walnuts
- Hazelnuts
- Hickory Nuts
These nuts provide essential fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. In addition, squirrels consume fruits like apples and berries. They also nibble on tree bark and leaves when other food sources are scarce.
This diverse diet is crucial for maintaining their health and supporting their energy needs.
Best Foods to Offer
If you decide to feed squirrels, provide them with foods that mirror their natural diet.
Here are some of the best foods for squirrels:
- Nuts (unsalted and without additives)
- Seeds (pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds)
- Fruits (apples, pears, and berries)
- Vegetables (carrots and leafy greens)
Nuts, especially walnuts and hazelnuts, are rich in fat and provide the energy needed for winter. Always avoid offering processed foods as they can harm the squirrels’ health.
Using a squirrel feeder can encourage them to visit while allowing you to control the types and amounts of food provided.
Foods to Avoid
While squirrels are generally not picky, there are several foods you should avoid.
Avoid feeding squirrels:
- Junk food (like chips and candy)
- Processed human foods (which can be unhealthy)
- Certain fruits (like grapes and avocado, which can be harmful)
Feeding them the wrong items can lead to malnutrition or other health issues. Sticking to a diet that reflects their natural eating habits is the best way to keep them healthy.
By understanding their nutritional needs, you can better support the squirrel population in your garden.
Setting Up a Feeding Station
Creating a feeding station is a great way to attract squirrels to your garden. You can choose the right feeder and establish good feeding practices to keep your furry visitors healthy and happy.
Choosing a Squirrel Feeder
Selecting the right squirrel feeder is crucial. Look for feeders specifically designed for squirrels. They often have a sturdy build to withstand outdoor conditions and keep the food safe. There are many types available, including:
- Platform feeders: These allow squirrels to eat freely and can hold various foods.
- Hopper feeders: These store food and release it gradually.
- Tube feeders: These can protect the food from pests while being easy for squirrels to access.
Squirrels love a variety of foods, especially nuts and seeds. Fill the feeder with their favorite foods like sunflower seeds, peanuts, and walnuts. Make sure to place the feeder in a quiet area, away from predators, so the squirrels feel safe.
Feeding Practices
When feeding squirrels, consider frequency and hygiene. It’s best to feed them only one to two times a week. This prevents over-dependency on human food and encourages them to forage naturally.
Regularly check and clean the feeder to avoid any build-up of mold or bacteria. Use warm, soapy water to clean it. Also, be sure to place the feeder at least ten feet from trees or fences. This keeps squirrels safe from predators while they eat.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try to hand-feed squirrels. Just remember to be patient and offer small pieces until they feel comfortable around you. This can create a fun interaction between you and the wildlife in your garden.
