Squirrels are common backyard visitors, and many wonder what they eat, especially garden produce like cucumbers. Understanding their dietary needs and preferences is helpful.
Squirrels and Cucumbers
Squirrels can eat cucumbers, though these vegetables are not a primary part of their natural diet. They might nibble on them if other food sources are scarce or for hydration during warm weather. Cucumbers are mostly water, offering minimal caloric or protein content compared to a squirrel’s typical diet.
Cucumbers offer limited nutritional benefits, containing some vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin A. Squirrels often prefer nuts over vegetables, and may only take a few bites before moving on. However, some might consume a whole cucumber if readily available, especially if drawn to its crisp texture and mild taste.
Understanding a Squirrel’s Natural Diet
Squirrels are omnivores, meaning their diet in the wild includes both plant and animal matter. Their primary food sources are nuts, seeds, fruits, and fungi. These items provide the necessary fats, proteins, and carbohydrates essential for their active lifestyles.
Beyond nuts and seeds, squirrels also forage for tree buds, bark, and various types of berries and wild fruits. They may also consume insects, such as grasshoppers and crickets, particularly when other food sources are limited, as these provide a crucial protein supplement. This diverse diet allows them to adapt to seasonal changes and food availability in their environment.
Foods to Avoid Feeding Squirrels
It is important to avoid feeding squirrels certain human foods that can be harmful or lack nutritional value.
- Heavily processed foods, such as bread, crackers, and sugary breakfast cereals, offer little to no nutrition and can lead to malnourishment or digestive issues.
- High sugar content in treats like candy and cookies can result in obesity, dental problems, and potentially diabetes.
- Salty snacks, including chips and salted nuts, are also detrimental as squirrels do not process salt effectively, leading to dehydration and kidney stress.
- Certain natural items can also be problematic; fruit pits and seeds from cherries, apples, peaches, and plums contain cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic.
- Avocados, onions, and garlic contain substances that are poisonous to squirrels.
- Moldy peanuts and corn can carry aflatoxins, which can damage a squirrel’s liver.