Squirrels are frequent visitors to backyards, often investigating human food sources. They are indeed attracted to and will eat grape jelly, prompting a closer look at the implications of this dietary choice for their well-being.
Why Squirrels are Drawn to Grape Jelly
Squirrels are attracted to sweet foods that provide quick energy, as their natural diets include fruits with natural sugars. Grape jelly’s high sugar content appeals to them due to its readily available calories.
As opportunistic feeders, squirrels consume a wide variety of available food items, including those found near human habitation. The ease of access to a concentrated energy source like jelly makes it a tempting option, despite its minimal nutritional value.
The Health Risks of Grape Jelly for Squirrels
Grape jelly, while seemingly harmless, poses several health risks for squirrels. It is predominantly sugar, lacking essential proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals vital for a balanced diet. A high-sugar diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies by displacing more beneficial food sources.
The high sugar content in grape jelly significantly contributes to dental problems. Like other rodents, squirrels have continuously growing incisor teeth, and a sugary diet promotes tooth decay. This decay can impact their ability to forage for natural, harder foods. Excessive sugar intake can also lead to weight gain and metabolic issues.
Regular feeding of grape jelly can foster an unhealthy dependency on human food sources. This reliance diminishes their natural foraging behaviors and reduces their intake of a diverse, wild diet. The high sugar concentration may also cause digestive upset, as their digestive systems are adapted for processing natural, high-fiber foods.
Healthier Alternatives and Deterrents
For those wishing to provide food for squirrels, offering natural and appropriate options is beneficial. Suitable choices include unsalted nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, hickory nuts), preferably in their shells to encourage natural chewing. Fresh fruits (apples, berries, grapes) and vegetables (carrots, broccoli, leafy greens) can also be offered in moderation. Additionally, protein sources like dried mealworms can supplement their diet.
Deterrent Methods
To prevent squirrels from accessing grape jelly, especially when intended for birds, several deterrent methods can be employed. Squirrel-proof feeders restrict access. Strategic placement, adhering to the “5-7-9 rule” (5 feet off the ground, 7 feet from structures, 9 feet from hanging points), also makes feeders less accessible.
Installing baffles above and below feeders creates a barrier squirrels find difficult to navigate. Some bird seed mixes contain safflower or nyjer seeds, which birds consume but squirrels find unappealing. Cayenne pepper can be mixed with birdseed; birds are unaffected by capsaicin, but squirrels are deterred by its spiciness.