How To Attract And Feed Squirrels In Your Backyard

Are you tired of watching squirrels raid your birdfeeders and steal all the seeds? Why not take matters into your own hands and create a backyard feeding station specifically for these furry critters? Not only will this give you a chance to observe squirrels up close, but it will also help divert their attention away from your birdfeeders. Get ready to welcome your new backyard guests with open arms and a tasty spread of squirrel-approved snacks.

What types of food should I provide for squirrels in my backyard?

Squirrels are known for their agile moves and adorable antics, making them a common sight in backyards across the world. These furry creatures are opportunistic eaters and have a wide-ranging diet. While they can forage for their own food, providing supplementary food can help support their well-being. If you want to attract or provide for squirrels in your backyard, it's important to offer them a balanced diet. Here are some types of food that you can provide for squirrels:

Nuts:

Nuts are a staple in a squirrel's diet. They are a great source of protein, healthy fats, and other essential nutrients. Squirrels love peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts. You can place whole nuts in a secure and elevated feeder or scatter them around the yard for squirrels to find. It's best to provide unsalted nuts to avoid any negative health effects.

Seeds:

Seeds are another important food source for squirrels. They contain vital nutrients and are often easier for squirrels to collect and store. Squirrels enjoy a variety of seeds, including sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds. You can offer seeds in a bird feeder or sprinkle them on the ground.

Fruits and vegetables:

Squirrels have a sweet tooth for fruits and vegetables. They enjoy munching on apples, pears, berries, grapes, and bananas. You can place fruit slices on a feeding station or hang them from a tree branch. Vegetables like carrots, squash, and broccoli are also appreciated by squirrels. Make sure to wash the fruits and vegetables thoroughly before offering them.

Corn:

Corn is a popular food choice for squirrels, especially during the winter months when other food sources may be scarce. You can provide corn cobs by securely attaching them to a tree or using a squirrel feeder designed specifically for corn.

Squirrel feed mixes:

Squirrel feed mixes are commercially available and often contain a combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. These mixes are specifically formulated to meet squirrels' nutritional needs. However, it's important to read the ingredients carefully and choose mixes that do not contain harmful additives or preservatives.

Water:

In addition to food, providing a water source is essential for squirrels' hydration. You can place a shallow dish or bird bath filled with fresh water in your backyard. Make sure to clean and refill it regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.

When offering food for squirrels, it's important to consider their safety. Avoid using pesticides or offering food that might be harmful, such as chocolate or caffeine. Additionally, create a safe feeding area away from predators, such as cats or dogs. By providing a variety of nutritious foods and creating a safe environment, you can enjoy the delightful presence of squirrels in your backyard while helping them thrive.

How often should I feed squirrels in my backyard?

Squirrels are adorable animals that can often be found frolicking in our backyards. While they are capable of foraging for their own food, many people enjoy providing supplementary nutrition to these furry visitors. If you're wondering how often you should feed squirrels in your backyard, it's important to strike a balance between offering sustenance and not overfeeding them.

One of the key factors to consider when determining how often to feed squirrels is the availability of natural food sources in your area. Squirrels have a diverse diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and even insects. During times when natural food sources are abundant, such as in the spring and summer, you may not need to feed squirrels as frequently. On the other hand, in the winter when food is scarce, providing regular meals can be incredibly beneficial to their survival.

It is generally recommended to offer small amounts of food to squirrels on a daily basis. This can help establish a routine and ensure that they have access to food without becoming dependent on it. Providing food consistently also encourages squirrels to establish a familiar feeding spot in your backyard, which can be a great source of entertainment for you and your family.

When it comes to the type of food to offer, there are numerous options to choose from. Nuts like acorns, almonds, and walnuts are always a hit with squirrels. You can also provide a mix of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and even corn kernels. Fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and broccoli can also be added to their diet. It's important to remember that while squirrels can digest a variety of foods, it's best to avoid offering them foods that are high in salt, sugar, or artificial additives, as these can be harmful to their health.

To feed squirrels in your backyard, you can use a squirrel feeder or simply scatter the food on the ground. Squirrels are agile climbers and tend to enjoy jumping from branch to feeder, so providing a feeder at a height of at least 10 feet can help keep them entertained. Ensure that the feeding area is clean and free of any potential hazards or predators that could harm the squirrels.

By offering regular meals to squirrels in your backyard, you not only provide them with nourishment but also help them survive during harsh weather conditions. Remember, though, that squirrels are wild animals and should not become reliant on human-provided food. Enjoy the experience of feeding squirrels in moderation, and remember to keep their dietary needs in mind for a well-balanced approach.

Are there any foods that I should not give to squirrels in my backyard?

Squirrels are known for their opportunistic feeding habits. They have been known to eat a wide variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, flowers, fungi, and even insects. However, not all foods are suitable for squirrels, and some can even be harmful to their health. If you enjoy feeding squirrels in your backyard, it's important to be aware of which foods to avoid.

One food to avoid feeding squirrels is processed or sugary foods. These can include items such as candy, chocolate, cookies, chips, and other junk food. While squirrels may be attracted to the sweet taste of these foods, they are not part of their natural diet and can cause digestive issues, tooth decay, obesity, and other health problems. It's best to stick to natural and unprocessed foods when feeding squirrels.

Another food to avoid is bread. While bread is not necessarily toxic to squirrels, it is nutritionally poor and can lead to malnutrition if it forms a large part of their diet. Bread lacks the essential nutrients that squirrels need for proper growth and development. Instead of bread, you can offer nuts, seeds, or fresh fruits and vegetables as a healthier alternative.

Certain foods can be toxic to squirrels and should never be fed to them. These include avocados, onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Avocado contains a substance called persin, which is toxic to many animals, including squirrels. Onions, garlic, and mushrooms contain compounds that can cause digestive upset, anemia, and even organ damage in squirrels. It's important to keep these foods away from squirrels to prevent any accidental ingestion.

Lastly, it's important to monitor the foods you offer squirrels to ensure they are fresh and not spoiled. Avoid giving them foods that have begun to mold or rot, as these can cause digestive issues and make them sick. It's also a good idea to provide small portions of food at a time to prevent overeating and potential health problems associated with obesity.

In conclusion, there are certain foods that you should avoid giving to squirrels in your backyard. Processed or sugary foods, bread, avocados, onions, garlic, mushrooms, and spoiled foods should never be fed to squirrels. Instead, stick to natural and unprocessed foods such as nuts, seeds, fresh fruits, and vegetables. By providing a healthy and suitable diet, you can help ensure the well-being of the squirrels in your backyard.

Should I use a specific type of feeder to feed squirrels in my backyard?

If you enjoy watching squirrels in your backyard and want to attract them with a feeder, you might be wondering if there is a specific type of feeder that works best. While there are many different types of squirrel feeders available on the market, there isn't necessarily one type that is more effective than others. However, there are a few factors to consider when choosing a squirrel feeder.

Firstly, you should consider the squirrel's natural feeding behavior. Squirrels are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects. They are also known for their ability to climb trees and jump long distances. So, it is important to choose a feeder that allows squirrels to access the food easily and mimic their natural feeding habits.

One popular type of squirrel feeder is a platform feeder. This type of feeder consists of a flat platform where you can place food items like nuts or seeds. Platform feeders are easy for squirrels to access and allow them to sit and eat comfortably. You can also attach a baffle or dome-shaped cover to the feeder to protect the food from rain and snow.

Another option is a squirrel-proof feeder. These feeders are designed to prevent squirrels from accessing the food, typically by using baffles or cages. Squirrel-proof feeders can be effective if you have other wildlife in your area that may also be attracted to the food.

Additionally, you can use a squirrel feeder that incorporates a squirrel's natural climbing and jumping abilities. For example, a squirrel corn cob feeder consists of a long metal spike or chain with corn cobs attached. Squirrels can easily climb the spike or chain and feed on the corn. Similarly, a squirrel bungee feeder consists of a bungee cord with a food item attached at the end. The squirrels can jump onto the bungee cord and enjoy their meal.

When selecting a squirrel feeder, it is important to consider the location and placement. Squirrels are agile climbers and can reach feeders hung from tree branches or attached to a pole. Ensure that the feeder is placed in an area where squirrels can easily access it without being obstructed by other objects.

In conclusion, there isn't a specific type of feeder that is best for feeding squirrels in your backyard. The key is to choose a feeder that allows squirrels to access the food easily and mimics their natural feeding behavior. Platform feeders, squirrel-proof feeders, and feeders that incorporate climbing and jumping abilities are all viable options. Consider the location and placement of the feeder to ensure squirrels can easily reach it. By providing a variety of food options and a comfortable feeding experience, you can enjoy watching squirrels in your backyard.

Are there any precautions I should take when feeding squirrels in my backyard to prevent them from becoming a nuisance?

Feeding squirrels in your backyard can be a fun and rewarding activity. However, it is important to follow a few precautions to prevent them from becoming a nuisance. Squirrels are known for their ability to adapt and may become dependent on the food you provide, leading to potential problems.

• Choose the Right Food: Squirrels have a natural diet that consists of nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. It is important to offer them food that mimics their natural diet. Avoid providing them with processed and sugary foods, as these can be harmful to their health.
• Provide Variety: Just like humans, squirrels enjoy variety in their diet. Offering a mix of different foods will keep them interested and prevent them from relying solely on the food you provide. This can include a combination of nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and peanuts, as well as fruits like apples and berries.
• Use Squirrel-Proof Feeders: Squirrel-proof feeders are designed to deter squirrels from accessing the food. These feeders typically have mechanisms such as weighted perches or adjustable feeding ports that prevent squirrels from obtaining the food. This helps to ensure that the squirrels do not overeat or monopolize the feeder.
• Set Feeding Times: Establishing a feeding schedule can help prevent squirrels from becoming overly dependent on your food. Limiting the amount of food provided and feeding them at specific times of the day will discourage them from constantly seeking out food in your backyard.
• Clean Up Regularly: Squirrels are known to stash their food, so it is important to clean up any uneaten food on a regular basis. This helps to discourage squirrels from digging up your lawn or garden in search of buried food. Additionally, cleaning up food debris can also prevent other pests, such as rats and mice, from being attracted to your backyard.
• Monitor Behavior: Keep an eye on the behavior of the squirrels visiting your backyard. If you notice an increase in aggression or signs of dependence, it may be necessary to reduce or discontinue feeding them altogether. Squirrels that become too reliant on human-provided food can lose their ability to forage for natural food sources and may become a nuisance.
• Address Nuisance Behavior: If squirrels begin causing damage to your property or become overly aggressive, it may be necessary to take action. This can include using deterrents such as motion-activated sprinklers or physical barriers to prevent squirrels from accessing certain areas. However, it is important to seek local regulations and guidelines before taking any such action.

In conclusion, feeding squirrels in your backyard can be an enjoyable activity as long as certain precautions are taken. By providing the right type and amount of food, using squirrel-proof feeders, setting feeding times, cleaning up regularly, monitoring squirrel behavior, and addressing nuisance behavior as necessary, you can minimize the risk of squirrels becoming a nuisance in your backyard. Enjoy the presence of these fascinating creatures while ensuring their well-being and respecting their natural behavior.

Frequently asked questions