Squirrels are frequent visitors to backyards and parks, often observed scampering up trees or foraging on the ground. These agile rodents possess a diverse diet, adapting to the availability of various food sources throughout the seasons. Understanding what they consume is a common point of interest for many people who encounter them. Their eating habits can provide insight into their ecological role and how they thrive in different environments.
Common Fruits Squirrels Eat
Squirrels readily consume a variety of fruits, especially those found in their natural habitats or in gardens. They are attracted to the sweetness and water content that fruits offer. Common choices include berries such as blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, mulberries, and strawberries. These small fruits are easily accessible and provide a quick source of energy.
Larger fruits like apples, pears, grapes, plums, peaches, and cherries are also part of their diet. Squirrels can easily climb fruit trees to access these items. They also enjoy melons like watermelon and cantaloupe, and tropical fruits such as bananas, kiwi, and mangoes. Squirrels are opportunistic foragers, eating what is readily available in wild or urban environments.
Fruits to Avoid Giving Squirrels
While many fruits are safe for squirrels, some should be avoided due to potential health risks. Avocado, for instance, contains persin, a fungicidal toxin that can be harmful to many animals. Though some sources mention squirrels eating avocado, it is generally recommended to avoid giving it to them.
Citrus fruits like oranges, while sometimes consumed, should be offered in moderation or avoided, as their high acidity can potentially cause digestive upset. It is also important to avoid giving squirrels fruit pits and seeds from certain fruits, such as apples, cherries, peaches, and plums. These often contain amygdalin, a compound that can metabolize into hydrogen cyanide, a powerful toxin in the digestive system. High sugar content in some fruits can also lead to dental issues, hyperactivity, or other health problems like obesity and metabolic bone disease if consumed in large quantities.
Fruit’s Place in a Squirrel’s Diet
Fruits serve as a supplementary food source for squirrels, providing essential vitamins and hydration. The natural sugars in fruits offer a quick energy boost. Fruits contribute to a varied diet, but they are not the primary component of a squirrel’s natural food intake.
A squirrel’s diet primarily consists of nuts, seeds, and other plant matter such as buds, flowers, and tree bark. Fruits fit into their foraging behaviors when they are in season and readily available. Plant-based foods, including fruits, form the majority of their diet. Fruit complements their main diet of nuts and seeds.