Squirrels are charming and lively animals, famous for their quick movements, adorable features, and love for food. Peanut the Squirrel, a social media star, exemplifies the incredible personality of squirrels and their adaptability as they become more common in human environments. While squirrels like Peanut entertain us with their antics, it’s important to remember that these creatures have specific dietary needs that must be met to ensure their health and well-being. In this blog, we’ll cover the essentials of feeding squirrels, focusing on the do’s and don’ts, and ending with a FAQ section on feeding these delightful animals.
The Basics of Squirrel Nutrition
Squirrels are primarily herbivores, but they also have some omnivorous tendencies, especially when they forage for food in urban areas. Their diet in the wild consists of nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, and occasional insects or small animals. When feeding squirrels, it’s essential to mimic their natural diet as closely as possible to prevent health complications, like Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), caused by improper nutrition.
Important Nutritional Considerations:
- Calcium to Phosphorus Ratio
Squirrels require a balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus in their diet to avoid bone issues. An improper balance, particularly low calcium levels, can lead to MBD, where calcium is leached from bones, causing brittle bones and other health problems. - Protein and Fiber
Protein is essential for muscle health, while fiber supports digestion. Both nutrients are naturally found in a squirrel’s diet through a variety of seeds, nuts, and some vegetation. - Variety
Like humans, squirrels thrive on a varied diet. Relying too heavily on a single food source can lead to nutrient imbalances and health issues. Variety ensures they receive a broad range of nutrients.
Foods to Feed Squirrels Like Peanut the Squirrel
Below is a list of ideal foods to feed squirrels, categorized for ease. This can also help if you are trying to establish a safe and nutritious feeding pattern for squirrels visiting your backyard.
| Food Category | Examples | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Nuts (in moderation) | Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans (in shells) | High in protein and healthy fats; promotes energy. |
| Fruits | Apples (no seeds), grapes, berries, bananas | Natural sugars for energy and a variety of vitamins. |
| Vegetables | Leafy greens (spinach, kale), carrots | Rich in fiber, calcium, and essential vitamins. |
| Grains | Oats, corn on the cob (uncooked) | Provides fiber and slow-releasing carbohydrates. |
| Seeds | Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds (unsalted) | Good for occasional treats; high in healthy fats. |
| Protein sources | Hard-boiled egg (small pieces occasionally) | Provides essential amino acids and protein. |
Foods to Avoid Feeding Squirrels
Some foods, although enjoyed by squirrels, can be detrimental to their health. Here’s what to avoid feeding squirrels like Peanut the Squirrel:
| Food | Reason to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Peanuts | Can harbor aflatoxin, a harmful mold; low in nutrition. |
| Salted Nuts | High sodium is unhealthy for squirrels. |
| Sugary Foods | Sweets or chocolates can cause digestive issues and are unsafe. |
| Dairy Products | Squirrels are lactose intolerant, so cheese and milk are harmful. |
| Processed Foods | Contains preservatives and ingredients unsuitable for wildlife. |
While squirrels may enjoy these items, they could lead to malnutrition and health problems if consumed regularly. Instead, focus on whole, fresh, and natural foods similar to those they would eat in the wild.
Feeding Squirrels in Your Backyard: Tips for Best Practices
When feeding squirrels in your backyard, it’s essential to consider their safety and your own. Here are some helpful tips:
- Set Up a Feeding Station
Place food in a designated spot where squirrels feel safe. Use shallow dishes or trays to keep food off the ground, minimizing the risk of attracting other animals or contaminants. - Limit Feeding Times
Provide food at regular intervals rather than all at once, encouraging them to forage and not become overly dependent on handouts. - Avoid Overfeeding Peanuts
Peanuts, while a common squirrel treat, lack nutritional value and may harbor mold. If used, limit their quantity and prioritize other nuts, such as almonds or walnuts. - Avoid Salt and Seasoning
Any added salt, sugar, or spices are harmful to squirrels. Stick to plain, unsalted nuts and seeds. - Encourage Variety
Offer a range of foods to ensure squirrels receive balanced nutrition. For example, rotate fruits, nuts, and vegetables to create a varied menu for visiting squirrels.
Common FAQs about Feeding Squirrels Like Peanut the Squirrel
1. Can squirrels eat peanuts in moderation?
Yes, but it’s best to offer other types of nuts with better nutritional profiles, such as walnuts or almonds. Peanuts should not be a staple due to their lower nutritional value.
2. What should I feed a baby squirrel?
Baby squirrels have different dietary needs, typically requiring a formula developed for small mammals. Avoid feeding cow’s milk, as it can be harmful to them.
3. Is it okay to feed squirrels every day?
Occasional feeding is okay, but daily feedings can make squirrels dependent on human-provided food, which is less nutritionally balanced than a natural foraged diet.
4. Can squirrels eat seeds?
Yes, squirrels enjoy seeds like sunflower and pumpkin seeds. However, keep quantities moderate as seeds are high in fat.
5. Should I feed squirrels if I live in a region where rabies is a concern?
Be cautious when interacting with squirrels in areas where rabies is prevalent. Feeding from a distance and avoiding direct contact can help minimize risks.
6. Are there foods that can harm squirrels?
Yes, avoid processed foods, chocolate, dairy products, and salted or sugary snacks. These can be harmful and potentially lethal to squirrels.
7. Why is calcium important for squirrels like Peanut the Squirrel?
Calcium helps prevent Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) in squirrels. Foods high in calcium, like leafy greens, should be included in their diet.
8. What is the best time to feed squirrels?
Squirrels are typically active during the day, so feeding in the early morning or late afternoon aligns with their natural foraging times.
By following these feeding guidelines, you can help ensure the health and well-being of squirrels like Peanut and any other backyard visitors. It’s important to treat feeding as a supplemental practice, allowing these clever animals to continue foraging naturally, which is essential for their overall health and adaptability. With proper care, feeding squirrels can be a rewarding experience that fosters a respectful relationship between humans and wildlife.