Squirrels can consume mealworms, but understanding their nutritional composition and how they fit into their broader dietary needs is important. This article explores the role of mealworms for squirrels and offers insights into responsible feeding practices.
Mealworms in a Squirrel’s Diet
Mealworms are primarily composed of protein and fat, offering a concentrated energy source. They contain approximately 47-60% crude protein, 25-35% fat, and about 10-15% carbohydrates. This high protein content can supplement the diet of squirrels, which are primarily herbivorous but also opportunistic omnivores. While their main diet consists of plant matter, wild squirrels consume insects, bird eggs, and even small vertebrates when available.
Mealworms can serve as a protein boost, particularly for pregnant or lactating females, or for young, growing squirrels with higher protein demands. However, mealworms alone do not provide a complete nutritional profile. Their calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is imbalanced, with significantly more phosphorus than calcium. Consumed in large quantities without proper supplementation, this imbalance can lead to metabolic bone disease. Therefore, mealworms should be considered a supplemental food, not a primary dietary staple.
Important Feeding Considerations
Moderation is important when offering mealworms to squirrels to prevent nutritional imbalances. Overfeeding without addressing their low calcium content can deplete a squirrel’s calcium reserves, potentially leading to bone density issues. To mitigate this, consider “gut-loading” live mealworms with calcium-rich foods or dusting dried mealworms with a calcium supplement.
The quantity offered should be small, perhaps a few mealworms a few times a week. Both live and dried mealworms are available; dried mealworms are convenient and have a longer shelf life, while live mealworms provide a more natural foraging experience. Ensure mealworms are sourced from reputable pet supply stores to avoid those treated with harmful chemicals. Maintaining good hygiene by cleaning feeding areas regularly also helps prevent disease spread.
Diverse Dietary Needs of Squirrels
Squirrels naturally forage for a wide variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs. Their diet primarily consists of nuts like acorns, walnuts, and hickory nuts, which provide essential fats and proteins. They also consume seeds, including those from conifer trees, and various fruits and berries, offering vitamins and antioxidants.
Beyond these common items, squirrels eat fungi, tree buds, bark, and even some flowers. This diverse foraging behavior ensures they receive a broad spectrum of nutrients. While mealworms can be a small part of their diet, they should not replace the natural variety of foods squirrels consume, as a balanced and varied diet is important for their long-term health.