What to Feed Squirrels in Backyard: A Nutty Discussion on Backyard Wildlife Cuisine

Squirrels are delightful creatures that bring life and energy to any backyard. Watching them scamper around, leap from tree to tree, and occasionally engage in playful antics can be a source of endless entertainment. However, if you’re looking to attract or care for these furry visitors, one of the most important questions you’ll face is: what to feed squirrels in backyard? While this seems like a straightforward query, it opens up a fascinating discussion about wildlife nutrition, ethical feeding practices, and even the philosophical implications of human-animal interactions. Let’s dive into this nutty topic and explore the many facets of feeding squirrels in your backyard.

The Basics: What Do Squirrels Naturally Eat?

Before deciding what to feed squirrels, it’s essential to understand their natural diet. Squirrels are omnivores, though their diet is primarily plant-based. In the wild, they consume:

• Nuts and Seeds: Acorns, walnuts, hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds are staples.
• Fruits: Apples, berries, and grapes are often enjoyed.
• Vegetables: Squirrels will nibble on corn, squash, and leafy greens.
• Insects and Fungi: Occasionally, they supplement their diet with small insects, eggs, or mushrooms.

Knowing this, you can tailor your backyard offerings to mimic their natural diet while ensuring they receive the nutrients they need.

Safe and Healthy Foods for Backyard Squirrels

If you’re eager to feed squirrels, here are some safe and nutritious options:

1. Nuts in the Shell: Whole nuts like walnuts, almonds, and pecans are excellent choices. The shells provide mental stimulation and help keep their teeth healthy.
2. Seeds: Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds are squirrel favorites. However, avoid salted or flavored varieties.
3. Fresh Fruits: Apples, pears, and bananas can be offered in small quantities. Remove any seeds or pits, as some (like apple seeds) contain trace amounts of cyanide.
4. Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and sweet potatoes are great options. Avoid onions and garlic, as they can be harmful.
5. Specialized Squirrel Food: Many pet stores sell squirrel-specific food blends that are nutritionally balanced.

Foods to Avoid

Not all foods are safe for squirrels. Some can cause digestive issues or even be toxic. Avoid feeding them:

• Processed Foods: Chips, crackers, and other human snacks are unhealthy and can lead to obesity.
• Dairy Products: Squirrels are lactose intolerant and cannot properly digest milk or cheese.
• Chocolate: It’s toxic to many animals, including squirrels.
• Raw Peanuts: While squirrels love peanuts, raw ones can contain a fungus that’s harmful to them. Roasted, unsalted peanuts are a safer alternative.

Ethical Considerations: Should You Feed Squirrels at All?

Feeding squirrels can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider the ethical implications. Overfeeding or providing inappropriate foods can lead to dependency, malnutrition, or even conflicts with other wildlife. Here are some guidelines to ensure ethical feeding:

1. Moderation is Key: Offer food in small amounts to prevent over-reliance.
2. Maintain a Natural Diet: Stick to foods that mimic their natural diet.
3. Avoid Hand-Feeding: This can make squirrels too comfortable around humans, potentially leading to unsafe interactions.
4. Keep It Clean: Regularly clean feeding areas to prevent the spread of disease.

The Philosophical Angle: What Does Feeding Squirrels Say About Us?

Feeding squirrels isn’t just about providing sustenance; it’s also a reflection of our relationship with nature. By caring for these creatures, we acknowledge our role as stewards of the environment. However, it also raises questions about boundaries. Are we helping them, or are we imposing our presence on their natural behaviors? This duality is worth pondering as we interact with the wildlife around us.

Fun Facts About Squirrels

• Squirrels can rotate their ankles 180 degrees, allowing them to climb down trees headfirst.
• They have excellent memory and can remember the locations of thousands of buried nuts.
• Squirrels communicate through a series of chirps, tail flicks, and body language.

FAQs

Q: Can I feed squirrels bread?
A: While squirrels may eat bread, it offers little nutritional value and can lead to health issues. It’s best to avoid it.

Q: How often should I feed squirrels?
A: Feeding once a day in small amounts is sufficient. Overfeeding can disrupt their natural foraging habits.

Q: Will feeding squirrels attract other animals?
A: Yes, other wildlife like birds, raccoons, or even rats may be drawn to the food. Consider using squirrel-specific feeders to minimize this.

Q: Are there any legal restrictions on feeding squirrels?
A: In some areas, feeding wildlife is regulated or prohibited. Check local laws before setting up a feeding station.

Q: Can squirrels become pests if I feed them?
A: If not managed properly, squirrels may become overly reliant on human-provided food and cause damage to property. Always feed responsibly.

Feeding squirrels in your backyard can be a joyful and educational experience, but it requires thoughtfulness and care. By understanding their dietary needs, respecting their natural behaviors, and considering the broader implications of our actions, we can create a harmonious relationship with these charming creatures. So, the next time you see a squirrel darting across your yard, you’ll know exactly what to offer—and what not to!