Introduction
Squirrels are some of the most recognizable and active wildlife in gardens, parks, and forests. While they are adorable to watch, understanding what squirrels eat is important for anyone interested in wildlife care, feeding backyard animals, or preventing damage to gardens and homes. Knowing their diet can also help keep squirrels healthy and avoid unwanted behaviors.
Squirrels are primarily omnivores, meaning they eat a variety of plant-based and occasionally animal-based foods. Their diet varies by species, season, and availability of food.
Common Foods in a Squirrel’s Diet
1. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts are a staple for many squirrel species, providing essential fats and proteins.
Common choices include:
- Acorns
- Walnuts
- Hazelnuts
- Pecans
- Pine nuts
- Sunflower seeds
Tips: Offer unsalted, raw nuts if feeding squirrels. Avoid processed or sugary nuts, which can harm them.
2. Fruits and Vegetables
Squirrels enjoy a variety of fruits and veggies, especially when nuts are scarce.
Popular options include:
- Apples, pears, and berries
- Grapes and melons
- Carrots, corn, and leafy greens
Visual cues: Squirrels may strip fruits or chew vegetable stems. Look for partially eaten produce in gardens or bird feeders.
3. Fungi
Mushrooms and other fungi are also consumed, particularly in forested areas. They play a role in a squirrel’s protein and nutrient intake.
4. Insects and Small Animals
While mainly plant-eaters, squirrels may eat insects, bird eggs, or small animals occasionally. This is more common in times of food scarcity.
5. Human Foods (Occasionally)
Squirrels sometimes eat human food scraps such as bread, cereal, or peanut butter. While this is okay in moderation, processed foods should not replace their natural diet.
How Squirrels Eat
- Squirrels have strong front teeth (incisors) that grow continuously. They use them to crack open nuts and chew through tough shells.
- They often hoard food, burying nuts for later consumption. Look for small piles of buried seeds or partially eaten nuts as a sign of squirrel activity.
- Squirrels eat both on the ground and in trees, depending on the food source.
Where Squirrels Can Be Found or Live
Squirrels are highly adaptable and inhabit a range of environments:
- Forests and woodlands: Oak, pine, and mixed forests are ideal for tree squirrels.
- Urban areas: Parks, gardens, and backyards provide food and shelter.
- Nests (dreys): Made from leaves and twigs, usually high in trees.
- Ground burrows: Some species, like ground squirrels, live underground and store food in tunnels.
Symptoms of a Poor Diet in Squirrels
Improper nutrition can lead to health issues. Watch for:
- Weight loss or very thin body condition
- Weak or brittle fur
- Lethargy or lack of activity
- Over-reliance on human food
Practical Tips for Feeding or Observing Squirrels
- Offer a variety of natural foods like nuts and fruits.
- Avoid salted, sugary, or processed foods.
- Place food in safe, accessible locations to prevent predators from reaching them.
- Observe squirrels from a distance to avoid disturbing their natural foraging behavior.
FAQ
1. Can squirrels eat chocolate or candy?
No. Chocolate and sugary foods are harmful to squirrels and can cause serious health issues.
2. How do squirrels store food?
Squirrels bury nuts and seeds in soil, tree crevices, or hidden caches. This behavior is called caching.
3. Are all squirrels herbivores?
No. While most squirrels are mainly herbivorous, some species occasionally eat insects, bird eggs, or small animals.