Squirrels are common backyard visitors with a varied diet. While nuts and seeds are often associated with them, fruits also play a role in their natural diet, providing essential nutrients and hydration.
Common Fruits Squirrels Enjoy
Berries are a particular favorite, including blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and mulberries, which offer natural sugars and antioxidants. Orchard fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, plums, and cherries are also readily eaten by squirrels, provided the pits and seeds are removed. These fruits are rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars, supplying the energy squirrels need for their active lifestyles. Melons like watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew provide not only sugars but also a good source of hydration, which is particularly beneficial during warmer months. Other safe fruit options include bananas, kiwi, mangoes, and nectarines; always ensure they are fresh and ripe.
Fruits to Avoid or Offer Sparingly
Certain fruits should be avoided or offered sparingly due to potential toxicity. Avocado contains persin, a fungicidal toxin found in its skin, pit, and leaves, which can be harmful to squirrels; chocolate is also toxic and should never be given. Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and grapefruits, are generally less appealing due to their high acidity and sour taste, and can potentially cause digestive upset if consumed in significant quantities. The pits and seeds of many stone fruits like apples, peaches, cherries, and plums contain toxic cyanide compounds. Dried fruits, while not inherently toxic, have a concentrated sugar content that can lead to dental issues or digestive problems if consumed excessively.
Beyond Fruit A Squirrel’s Natural Diet
Fruits are part of a squirrel’s diet, but their primary food sources in the wild are more diverse. Nuts, such as acorns, walnuts, and hickory nuts, form a significant portion of their intake, especially for storage during colder months. Seeds, including sunflower and pumpkin seeds, are also commonly consumed. Squirrels are omnivores, meaning their diet includes both plant and animal matter, though it is predominantly plant-based. They forage for fungi, tree buds, and bark, and will occasionally eat insects, bird eggs, or even small animals to supplement their nutritional needs; fruits offer vitamins and hydration but serve as a supplement rather than a staple.