Can You Feed Squirrels Bird Seed? A Detailed Guide
While technically possible, feeding squirrels bird seed is generally not recommended. Squirrels can and will eat bird seed, but it’s often not the most nutritious or balanced option for them and can lead to unintended consequences for bird populations.
Understanding the Squirrel Diet
Squirrels are opportunistic omnivores, meaning they eat a wide variety of foods. Their natural diet consists primarily of:
- Nuts (acorns, walnuts, hickory nuts)
- Seeds (sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds)
- Fruits (berries, apples)
- Fungi
- Insects (occasionally)
- Tree bark and buds (especially in winter)
While bird seed contains seeds that squirrels can consume, it often lacks the nutritional diversity and specific nutrients that squirrels need to thrive. Furthermore, a diet solely based on bird seed can lead to health problems and behavioral changes.
The Downsides of Feeding Squirrels Bird Seed
Feeding squirrels bird seed might seem harmless, but several negative consequences can arise:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Bird seed often lacks sufficient calcium, protein, and other essential nutrients that squirrels need, particularly during breeding season.
- Overpopulation: Easy access to food encourages squirrel populations to grow beyond the carrying capacity of the environment, leading to increased competition for resources.
- Aggression and Dependence: Squirrels become dependent on humans for food and may become aggressive when their food supply is interrupted.
- Competition with Birds: Squirrels can monopolize bird feeders, preventing birds from accessing the food they need.
- Damage to Property: Squirrels can damage bird feeders, homes, and gardens in their search for food.
Better Alternatives to Bird Seed for Squirrels
If you want to provide supplemental food for squirrels, consider these healthier alternatives:
- Nuts in Shells: Walnuts, pecans, and hickory nuts are excellent choices. The shells provide enrichment and help keep their teeth healthy.
- Squirrel-Specific Food: Look for commercially available squirrel food mixes that are formulated to meet their nutritional needs. These often contain a blend of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Offer small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and grapes.
How to Minimize Squirrel Access to Bird Feeders
If you still want to feed birds, take these steps to deter squirrels:
- Use Squirrel-Proof Feeders: Invest in feeders designed to prevent squirrels from reaching the seed. These may have cages, weights, or other mechanisms that deter squirrels.
- Hang Feeders Properly: Place feeders far from trees, fences, and other structures that squirrels can use to jump onto them. Use a long baffle above the feeder to prevent squirrels from climbing down.
- Offer Safflower Seed: Birds love safflower seed, but squirrels generally dislike it.
- Clean Up Spilled Seed: Regularly sweep up spilled seed around the base of the feeder to reduce the food available to squirrels.
Legal Considerations
Before feeding squirrels, check your local ordinances. Some municipalities have regulations regarding feeding wildlife, and you could face fines for violating these laws.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can squirrels eat sunflower seeds?
Yes, squirrels can eat sunflower seeds and often enjoy them. Sunflower seeds are a component of many bird seed mixes and can provide some nutritional value. However, it is best to offer sunflower seeds as part of a varied diet rather than the sole source of food.
Is corn a good food for squirrels?
While squirrels enjoy corn, it is not a highly nutritious food for them. It’s high in carbohydrates but lacks essential proteins and fats. Offering corn as a primary food source can lead to malnutrition. Small amounts of corn as an occasional treat are fine, but avoid making it a staple.
Will feeding squirrels attract unwanted pests?
Yes, feeding squirrels can attract other unwanted pests, such as rodents, raccoons, and even insects. These animals may also be attracted to spilled bird seed. To minimize this risk, offer food in limited quantities and clean up any spilled food regularly.
How much should I feed squirrels?
The amount of food you offer squirrels should be limited and supplemental, not a replacement for their natural foraging. Start with small amounts and observe how quickly it’s consumed. Avoid providing an excessive amount that goes uneaten.
What are the signs of an unhealthy squirrel?
Signs of an unhealthy squirrel include lethargy, weight loss, fur loss, difficulty moving, and open sores or wounds. If you observe a squirrel exhibiting these symptoms, contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center.
Should I provide water for squirrels?
Yes, providing a source of fresh water is beneficial, especially during hot, dry weather. A shallow dish or birdbath can provide a suitable water source. Make sure to clean the water dish regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae.
Is it okay to hand-feed squirrels?
Hand-feeding squirrels is generally not recommended. It can make them dependent on humans, increase the risk of bites and scratches, and contribute to the spread of diseases. It’s best to observe squirrels from a distance and avoid direct contact.
What should I do if a squirrel becomes aggressive?
If a squirrel becomes aggressive, avoid approaching it. Back away slowly and allow it to leave the area. Do not attempt to trap or handle the squirrel yourself. Contact your local animal control agency for assistance.
What is the best time of year to feed squirrels?
The best time of year to supplement squirrel diets is during the fall and winter months, when natural food sources are scarce. However, it’s important to reduce or discontinue feeding during the spring and summer months, when natural food sources are more abundant.
Are certain foods toxic to squirrels?
Yes, certain foods are toxic to squirrels and should be avoided. These include chocolate, onions, garlic, processed foods, and salty snacks. These foods can cause serious health problems and should never be offered to squirrels.
How can I tell the difference between a gray squirrel and a fox squirrel?
Gray squirrels are typically smaller and have gray fur with a bushy tail. Fox squirrels are larger and have reddish-brown fur with a bushy tail. Their size and coloration are the easiest ways to distinguish between the two species.
What are the benefits of allowing squirrels to forage naturally?
Allowing squirrels to forage naturally helps them maintain a healthy weight, promotes their natural behaviors, and reduces their dependence on humans. Foraging also helps to control insect populations and contributes to seed dispersal, which benefits the ecosystem.