Squirrels can eat a variety of foods, including nuts still in their shells such as walnuts, hickory nuts, white oak acorns, and beechnuts. Other foods that squirrels enjoy include peanuts, peanut butter, pecans, pistachios, grapes, corn, squash, zucchini, pumpkin, strawberries, carrots, apples, sunflower seeds, and even snack items such as Oreo cookies. However, peanuts and corn are not the best options for squirrels as they do not provide much nutritional value. Instead, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, and pecans are better options. Here are some tips on what to feed squirrels in your yard:
- Nuts still in their shells, such as walnuts, hickory nuts, white oak acorns, and beechnuts
- Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, and pecans
- Grapes, corn, squash, zucchini, pumpkin, strawberries, carrots, and apples
- Sunflower seeds (in moderation)
- Fresh water daily
Its important to avoid heavily-processed human foods and salted nuts, as they have poor nutritional value and can be harmful to squirrels. Additionally, its best to establish a feeding space just for squirrels to keep them away from bird feeders and gardens.
