What Seeds Do Squirrels Like? A Guide for Gardeners and Nature Lovers
Squirrels exhibit clear preferences when it comes to seeds; they are particularly fond of nuts, especially acorns, walnuts, and hickory nuts, but will also readily consume sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and corn. Understanding these preferences can help you attract or deter them from your garden, depending on your goals.
Understanding Squirrel Seed Preferences
Squirrels, those bushy-tailed acrobats of our parks and gardens, are notorious for their opportunistic diets. While they are often perceived as simple nut-gatherers, their culinary tastes are surprisingly nuanced. What seeds do squirrels like? is a question that has fascinated naturalists and frustrated gardeners alike. This exploration delves into the world of squirrel gastronomy, uncovering their favorite seeds and the reasons behind these preferences.
The Nutritional Value of Seeds for Squirrels
Seeds are more than just tasty treats for squirrels; they’re a crucial source of energy, protein, and essential nutrients. Nuts, in particular, are packed with fat, which is vital for squirrels to build up reserves for the winter months. Sunflower seeds provide a good source of vitamin E and linoleic acid, while pumpkin seeds offer iron and zinc. The diverse range of seeds available to squirrels ensures they get a balanced diet throughout the year.
The Role of Acorns in the Squirrel Diet
Acorns are a staple food for many squirrel species, especially in regions where oak trees are abundant. While acorns are nutritious, they also contain tannins, which can make them bitter. Squirrels employ several strategies to mitigate this bitterness, including burying the acorns and allowing them to leach tannins into the soil over time. This caching behavior also plays a critical role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.
Sunflower Seeds: A Squirrel’s Favorite
Sunflower seeds are a universally loved treat among squirrels. Their relatively small size, high oil content, and ease of cracking make them an ideal food source. Black oil sunflower seeds are particularly popular due to their thin shells and high nutritional value. This is likely the most common seed type found in bird feeders attacked by squirrels.
Other Seed Preferences
Beyond acorns and sunflower seeds, squirrels enjoy a variety of other seeds. These include:
- Pumpkin Seeds: A good source of vitamins and minerals.
- Walnuts: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Hickory Nuts: Another favorite nut, known for its distinct flavor.
- Corn: While not strictly a seed, dried corn kernels are a significant food source, especially in agricultural areas.
- Beechnuts: Smaller and sweeter than acorns.
Seeds to Avoid Offering Squirrels
While squirrels are generally adaptable eaters, some seeds are not ideal for their consumption. Avoid offering them:
- Processed Seeds: Seeds coated in salt, sugar, or artificial flavorings can be harmful to their health.
- Seeds with High Levels of Pesticides: Opt for organic or untreated seeds whenever possible.
- Spoiled or Moldy Seeds: These can contain harmful toxins.
Attracting Squirrels to Your Yard with Seeds
If you enjoy watching squirrels in your yard, providing them with a consistent supply of their favorite seeds is a great way to attract them. Consider setting up a dedicated squirrel feeder with a variety of nuts and seeds. Regularly replenish the feeder and ensure the seeds are fresh and dry.
Deterring Squirrels from Bird Feeders Using Seed Selection
Conversely, if you want to keep squirrels away from your bird feeders, you can strategically choose seeds that they are less likely to eat. Some options include:
- Safflower Seeds: Birds love them, but squirrels generally avoid them.
- Nyjer Seeds (Thistle Seeds): These tiny seeds are a favorite of finches but hold little appeal for squirrels.
| Seed Type | Squirrel Preference | Bird Preference |
|---|---|---|
| —————– | ——————— | —————– |
| Sunflower Seeds | High | High |
| Safflower Seeds | Low | High |
| Nyjer Seeds | Very Low | High |
| Acorns | High | Low |
| Corn | Medium | Medium |
The Impact of Squirrels on the Ecosystem
Squirrels play a significant role in the ecosystem, particularly in seed dispersal. By burying nuts and seeds, they inadvertently plant new trees and contribute to forest regeneration. However, their feeding habits can also have negative impacts, such as damaging crops and competing with other wildlife for resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of nuts are most attractive to squirrels?
Squirrels are particularly drawn to nuts with high-fat content, such as walnuts, pecans, hickory nuts, and hazelnuts. Acorns are also a favorite, though their bitter taste is mitigated by burying them.
Are sunflower seeds bad for squirrels?
No, sunflower seeds are not inherently bad for squirrels. In fact, they are a good source of energy and nutrients. However, like any food, they should be offered in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Black oil sunflower seeds are considered one of their preferred options due to their high oil content.
Do squirrels eat peanuts?
Yes, squirrels readily eat peanuts. Both shelled and unshelled peanuts are a convenient food source for them. However, keep in mind that peanuts are relatively low in nutritional value compared to other nuts and seeds, so they shouldn’t be the sole food source.
Can squirrels eat birdseed?
Yes, squirrels often raid bird feeders for seeds. They are particularly fond of sunflower seeds, millet, and corn, which are common ingredients in birdseed mixes. This is why many gardeners struggle to keep squirrels away from their bird feeders.
Do squirrels eat pine cones?
Yes, squirrels will eat pine cones, especially in the fall and winter when other food sources are scarce. They are primarily interested in the seeds inside the pine cone, which provide a valuable source of energy.
What is the best way to deter squirrels from eating my garden plants?
There are several ways to deter squirrels, including using squirrel-resistant fencing, planting squirrel-repellent plants (like daffodils or mint), and using commercial squirrel repellents. It’s important to note that what works for one gardener might not work for another, so experimentation is often necessary.
How can I attract squirrels to my yard without attracting other pests?
The key is to offer specific food sources that squirrels enjoy while minimizing the appeal to other pests. Use squirrel-specific feeders that are difficult for birds or rodents to access, and avoid leaving food scraps or garbage lying around.
Are squirrels harmful to trees?
Squirrels can sometimes damage trees by stripping bark to access sapwood or nesting materials. However, the damage is usually minor and doesn’t pose a serious threat to the tree’s health.
What is the best time of year to feed squirrels?
The best time of year to feed squirrels is during the fall and winter months, when natural food sources are scarce. This helps them build up fat reserves for the winter and survive harsh conditions.
Do squirrels hibernate?
No, squirrels do not hibernate in the true sense of the word. They may become less active during the coldest periods, but they do not enter a state of deep sleep like hibernating animals. Instead, they rely on stored food and occasional foraging to survive the winter.
Can squirrels eat chocolate?
No, squirrels should not be given chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to many animals, including squirrels. It can cause a range of health problems, including heart problems and seizures.
Is it legal to trap and relocate squirrels?
The legality of trapping and relocating squirrels varies depending on the location. In some areas, it is illegal to trap and relocate wildlife without a permit. It’s important to check your local regulations before attempting to trap and relocate squirrels. Moreover, relocation is often ineffective and inhumane, as squirrels often struggle to survive in unfamiliar territories. Considering humane deterrents and coexisting with wildlife is usually the most ethical and practical approach.