Expert Shares Tips on Properly Feeding Squirrels
Know What to Feed Them
The key to a healthy squirrel diet is variety. Offer various nutritious options to ensure they get the vitamins and minerals they need. Nuts, seeds, and fruits are all great choices.
Stick to unsalted, unsweetened, and unprocessed options. Avoid giving them foods high in fat, sugar, or salt, as these can be harmful.
Recommended Foods
- Nuts: almonds, peanuts, walnuts, pecans, pistachios
- Seeds: sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds
- Fruits: apples, bananas, berries, grapes
- Vegetables: carrots, celery, sweet potatoes
Create a Designated Feeding Area
Designate a specific spot in your yard or balcony for feeding the squirrels. This will help keep the mess contained and prevent them from scattering food around your property.
Choose a location that is easy for the squirrels to access but not too close to your house or other structures. This will help reduce the risk of them becoming dependent on you for food.
Keep the Area Clean
Regularly clean the feeding area to prevent mold, bacteria, and other contaminants from building up. Remove uneaten food and wipe down surfaces with a mild disinfectant.
This will help keep the squirrels healthy and prevent the spread of diseases.
Provide Water
Squirrels need access to fresh water, especially during hot weather. Place a shallow dish of water near the feeding area and refresh it regularly.
You can also provide them with a birdbath or other water source in your yard.
Avoid Overfeeding
While it's tempting to spoil the squirrels, overfeeding can be harmful. Limit the amount of food you offer them and only refill the feeder when it's empty.
Overfeeding can lead to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Store Food Properly
Store squirrel food in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. This will help keep the food fresh and nutritious.
Inspect the food regularly for signs of mold or pests, and discard any spoiled items.
