How to Feed Squirrels Right: A Guide to Healthy, Natural Food
Squirrels are found everywhere in our gardens, parks, and forests, bringing a smile to our faces every time we spot one – they are just so adorable! However, many people wonder: Is it okay to feed wild animals? And if so, what food is truly healthy for these little rodents? In this guide, you will learn everything about responsibly supporting our local squirrels.
I love feeding squirrels! I don’t have a feeding station. I just scatter walnuts on my balcony. I get so excited when one comes by, curiously exploring and burying nuts in my plant pots. Often, when I repot my plants, I find buried nuts in the soil – it makes me laugh every time.
Silke from animalfunfacts.net
Why Feed? (And Why with Caution)
Squirrels are perfectly adapted to life in the wild. They store supplies to survive the winter and usually find enough food on their own. Therefore, feeding them is not strictly necessary. However, it can be beneficial to support them in certain situations:
- In Winter: When the ground is frozen or a thick layer of snow makes it difficult to search for buried nuts.
- During Drought/Heat: In the height of summer, squirrels often suffer from water shortages.
- In Urban Areas: Here, there are often fewer natural food sources like old oaks or hazel bushes.
Important: The goal is not to tame the animals. They should retain their natural wariness to stay safe from dangers like cats, dogs, or cars. Therefore, it’s best to feed them in a way that allows you to remain in the background.
What’s on the Menu: The Right Choice
If you want to set up a feeding station, make sure to provide a mix that aligns with their natural eating habits. This strengthens the animals' immune system.
- Nuts (in the shell): Walnuts and hazelnuts are ideal. Gnawing on the shell keeps their teeth short and healthy.
- Seeds: Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and dried corn kernels provide valuable energy.
- Fruit (in small amounts): Small pieces of apple, pear, and grapes are juicy additions.
Extra Tip:
More important than food: Especially during hot summers, squirrels often struggle to find drinking water. A shallow dish filled with fresh water can save lives! Be sure to change the water daily to prevent the spread of germs.
Warning – No Peanuts, No Almonds!
Even though they are often found in cheap feed mixes: Squirrels cannot tolerate peanuts and almonds. When they are hungry, they may eat them anyway, but this can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues and can be fatal.
- No peanuts: They are prone to mold (Aflatoxins) and lack the necessary nutrients.
- No almonds: They often contain traces of cyanide, which can be extremely toxic to the small bodies of these rodents.
These Foods Are Also Prohibited
Be sure to avoid processed products like bread, popcorn, chocolate, fries, cakes, or chips. These contain sugar, salt, and leavening agents that can cause serious digestive problems. Salty, spicy, or seasoned foods are also unhealthy for these little creatures. Very important: Never give them milk. Squirrels are lactose intolerant; milk can lead to fatal diarrhea.
The Feed House: The Perfect Spot
A feed house that is regularly stocked makes it easier for animals to find food and reduces their stress, especially in urban areas. However, it requires some patience. The animals need time to discover the food. Additionally, they must thoroughly check the area to ensure there are no dangers.
- The Location: Choose a quiet, sheltered spot, far from roads.
- The Height: Hang the house about 2 meters high. This keeps them safe from ground predators.
- The Access: Animals should be able to reach the house easily via a branch or climbing aid. Long jumps require a lot of energy and pose a risk of injury.
- Safety: Do not use a feed house with a flap. If the flap (for example, due to a scare) falls on the animal's neck, it can cause serious injuries. An open, weather-protected house is safer.
Hygiene: An Often Overlooked Danger
Are multiple squirrels visiting your feed house? Then clean it regularly – ideally once a week with hot water. Diseases like squirrel pox can easily spread at feed houses. Also, remove old or moldy food, as it can attract rats and mice, which can lead to problems in populated areas.
Don't forget: The water bowl must also be cleaned daily. Bacteria can quickly form in standing water during heat, which is dangerous for the little critters.
By following these guidelines, you contribute significantly to species protection and ensure that our native wildlife stays healthy throughout the year.
More Information & Assistance
If you find an injured or sick squirrel contact AnimalHelpNow and ask for assistance.
Website: ahnow.org/
Our Advice
Feeding squirrels is a delightful experience. Many people wish to feed them directly from their hands. However, amidst all the joy, the health of the animals' lives should always come first. Of course, it’s tempting to pet a fluffy squirrel. But we must remember: they are and will remain wild animals. True love for animals means simply enjoying watching them instead.
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