You’ve got plenty of options for buying squirrel food—pet stores, farm supply shops, big-box retailers, and online sellers all carry it. Check out local pet stores, Tractor Supply, Rural King, Walmart, Lowe’s, or Target. Or just order specialty blends from Amazon or Chewy if that’s easier.
If you’re hoping to attract healthy, lively squirrels, you’ll want to know which stores stock ready-made mixes, bulk nuts, and the best feeders for your yard.
The next few sections will help you figure out where to shop, what to buy, and how to pick food that keeps your backyard visitors both healthy and happy.
Where to Buy Squirrel Food
You can find squirrel food nearby or just order it online. Prices, bag sizes, and blends change from store to store, so check the labels and maybe ask staff about what’s really in each bag.
Local Pet Stores and Feed Shops
Local pet stores and feed shops usually sell mixes labeled for squirrels and other backyard critters.
Look for unsalted peanuts, shelled sunflower seeds, or mixed nut blends. Staff often know if a mix is full of filler or has sneaky added sugars.
If you feed squirrels often, ask about bulk bags. Buying in bulk usually saves money and means fewer trips to the store.
Some shops even offer autoship or layaway for big orders.
If you’re after advice, bring a photo of your backyard squirrels. Feed shop employees often stock squirrel feeders and can suggest models that help cut waste and keep birds out.
You might want to check Tractor Supply Co. for wildlife feed and bigger bags or corn cobs (https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/catalog/squirrel-feed).
Garden Centers and Outdoor Retailers
Garden centers and home-improvement stores carry seed blends, shelled nuts, and suet that squirrels love.
These places often run seasonal deals in the fall and winter when more people feed wildlife.
Look for brands like Pennington or Kaytee. Garden centers sometimes sell squirrel feeders and mounting hardware so you can keep food off the ground and away from raccoons.
Ask staff how to store nuts so they stay fresh and dry.
If you shop at Lowe’s or Home Depot, check the outdoor wildlife aisle for mixed seed and corn made for squirrels (https://www.lowes.com/pl/garden-decor/bird-wildlife/bird-wildlife-food/squirrel-food/4294610462-921317122144).
Online Retailers and Subscription Services
Online stores give you a bigger selection and more bulk options. Amazon, Walmart, and Chewy sell squirrel mixes, single-ingredient nuts, and specialty blends you might not find in your local shops.
Use filters to compare bag sizes, prices per pound, and read a few customer reviews. If you like to keep things natural, look for non-GMO or additive-free foods.
Many sites let you set up autoship or subscriptions so you don’t have to remember to reorder.
For dedicated squirrel supplies and feeders, check niche shops and big retailers. Target and Tractor Supply, for example, list feeders and mixes that ship straight to your door (https://www.target.com/s/squirrel+food).
Choosing the Right Squirrel Food for Your Backyard
Pick foods that fit your local squirrel habits and what you want to see in your yard.
Think about the season, safety, and whether you want to attract a crowd or just a couple of regulars.
Types of Squirrel Food Available
You can buy ready-made mixes or just single items. Most stores stock shelled peanuts, corn on the cob, sunflower seeds, and blended “squirrel food” mixes for wildlife.
Packaged mixes usually have seeds, cracked corn, and peanuts—stuff squirrels can’t resist.
If you want less mess, go for shelled and unsalted nuts.
Bird seed blends will bring in squirrels, but they’re often high in fillers. To keep birds out, use a squirrel-only feeder and put food on a platform or tray.
If you want a quick brand guide, check out this best foods for squirrels guide for ideas.
Nutritional Needs of Squirrels
Squirrels need fats, protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. Nuts like walnuts, almonds, and peanuts give them plenty of fat and calories.
Fruits and veggies add vitamins and moisture. Seeds and corn offer carbs and quick energy.
Skip anything with added salt, sugar, or processed snacks meant for humans.
Young, pregnant, or cold-weather squirrels burn more calories and need extra fat. Offer higher-fat nuts in winter and more fresh veggies or fruit in spring and summer.
Keep portions reasonable—too much food can make squirrels overweight or dependent. Switch up foods for variety, and always put out clean water near their feeding spots.
DIY Squirrel Food and Safe Homemade Options
You can actually whip up simple, safe mixes for squirrels at home. Just toss together unsalted nuts, dried apple pieces, and some plain oats for a balanced little treat.
If you want, add a few unsalted roasted peanuts—no shells, and go easy on those. Skip chocolate, candy, bread with preservatives, and definitely don’t use raw potato or onion.
Ever tried making nut balls? Grab some unsweetened peanut butter, oats, and chopped walnuts. Press the mixture into balls and chill them for a bit.
Put these treats in a platform feeder or hang them up with a cord. When you make mixes, stash them in airtight containers.
Always toss out any uneaten food after a day or two. That way, you won’t attract pests or end up with moldy leftovers.
Stick to a few safety basics:
- Only use unsalted, plain ingredients.
- Don’t give them processed snacks or sugary stuff.
- It’s a good idea to check local wildlife advice before feeding squirrels often.
