What Do Squirrels Eat In Your Yard?

Do you ever wonder what those little critters munch on in your yard? Well, you’re in for a treat! Squirrels have a diverse palate and are always on the lookout for their next meal. From crunchy nuts to juicy fruits and even leafy vegetables, these furry foragers have a knack for finding the tastiest treats right outside your door.

So, grab a seat and join us on a journey to uncover the delectable delights that squirrels just can’t resist in your yard.

Key Takeaways

Squirrels in your yard are likely to eat a variety of nuts, including acorns, hickory nuts, walnuts, pecans, and pine nuts.
Fruits such as berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), apples (fresh or fallen), and grapes (ripe, especially in late summer and early fall) can attract squirrels to your yard.
Squirrels have a taste for certain vegetables, including corn, pumpkins, and tomatoes.
In addition to nuts, fruits, and vegetables, squirrels are also attracted to seeds such as acorns, sunflower seeds, and maple seeds. They may also consume insects found in your yard or foods found at bird feeders.

Types of Nuts Squirrels Eat in Your Yard

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You’ll be surprised by the variety of nuts squirrels enjoy munching on in your yard. Squirrels have a diverse palate when it comes to nuts, and they can have a significant impact on the types of trees they prefer in your yard and the overall health of your garden.

Squirrels are known to favor acorns, which come from oak trees. These small, oval-shaped nuts are a staple in a squirrel’s diet due to their high nutritional value. Another favorite nut is the hickory nut, which is found in hickory trees. Squirrels also enjoy feasting on walnuts, pecans, and pine nuts.

It is important to note that while squirrels contribute to seed dispersal and help with forest regeneration, their feeding habits can be detrimental to your garden. They may dig up newly planted bulbs, bury nuts that can sprout into unwanted trees, or damage delicate plants while searching for food. Therefore, it is important to find a balance in coexisting with these nut-loving creatures.

Fruits That Attract Squirrels to Your Yard

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Fruits like berries and apples can attract squirrels to your outdoor space. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders and will take advantage of any available food sources. By providing a variety of fruits in your yard, you can create a squirrel-friendly environment and attract these fascinating creatures.

Here are some fruits that squirrels find particularly appealing:

Berries: Squirrels love the sweet taste of berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. These small fruits are easy for them to carry and provide a quick energy boost.
Apples: Squirrels are known to enjoy apples, whether they are fresh or fallen from the tree. The juicy flesh and slightly tart flavor make them an irresistible treat.
Grapes: Squirrels have a keen sense of smell and can detect the scent of ripe grapes from a distance. They will eagerly feast on these juicy fruits, especially during the late summer and early fall.

Vegetables Squirrels Love to Nibble on in Your Yard

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If you want to attract squirrels to your outdoor space, consider planting vegetables like corn, pumpkins, and tomatoes. Squirrels are known to have a fondness for these tasty treats. However, it’s important to note that there are also common garden plants that squirrels tend to avoid in your yard. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can help protect your vegetables from being nibbled on by these furry critters.

Here are some common garden plants that squirrels tend to avoid:

Plant	Reason
Daffodils	They contain toxic alkaloids
Garlic	The strong smell repels squirrels
Marigolds	The scent and taste are unappealing to them

To further protect your vegetables from squirrels, consider implementing the following tips:

Use physical barriers such as fences or netting to prevent squirrels from accessing your garden.
Install motion-activated sprinklers to startle and deter squirrels.
Apply natural repellents such as spicy pepper sprays or predator urine around your plants.

Seeds That Squirrels Can’t Resist in Your Yard

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There are certain seeds in your yard that squirrels find irresistible. These seeds are not only a tasty treat for them but also serve as a vital food source. Squirrels are known for burying seeds in various locations throughout your yard. They have a keen sense of smell and are able to locate these hidden treasures with ease.

Here are some of the seeds that squirrels can’t resist:

Acorns: Squirrels are particularly fond of acorns and will go to great lengths to collect and store them.
Sunflower Seeds: The high fat content in sunflower seeds makes them a favorite among squirrels.
Maple Seeds: Also known as ‘helicopters,’ these seeds are a favorite snack for squirrels due to their abundance in many yards.

In your yard, squirrels have their favorite hiding spots for burying these precious seeds. They often choose areas with loose soil, such as flowerbeds or under bushes, where they can easily dig and stash their food.

Other Natural Foods That Squirrels Find in Your Yard

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In addition to seeds, squirrels also enjoy munching on nuts and berries found in yards. However, they have a diverse diet that includes insects as well. Squirrels are omnivorous animals, meaning they eat both plant-based and animal-based foods. Insects provide them with an important source of protein and fat.

You may be surprised to know that squirrels are skilled hunters and will actively search for insects in your yard. They can feast on beetles, caterpillars, ants, and even small spiders.

Another factor that attracts squirrels to your yard is the presence of bird feeders. These feeders not only provide a variety of seeds but also attract insects that squirrels can feed on. So, if you have bird feeders in your yard, you may notice an increase in squirrel activity as they take advantage of the available food sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Specific Plants or Flowers That Squirrels Are Attracted to in My Yard?

Squirrels are attracted to certain plants and flowers in your yard. They seek out specific ones for food and shelter. However, it’s important to avoid planting toxic varieties to ensure their safety.

How Can I Prevent Squirrels From Eating My Birdseed or Bird Feeders in My Yard?

To prevent squirrels from eating your birdseed or damaging your bird feeders, try using squirrel-proof feeders or adding baffles to existing ones. Providing alternative feeding methods, such as squirrel feeders or squirrel-proof food, can also help deter them.

Do Squirrels Eat Insects or Other Small Animals in My Yard?

Squirrels do eat fruits and nuts in your yard. They have a varied diet that includes insects and other small animals, but their primary food sources are fruits, nuts, seeds, and plants.

Can Squirrels Cause Any Damage to My Yard or Garden?

Squirrels can cause damage to your yard or garden by digging up bulbs, eating fruits and vegetables, and gnawing on tree bark. Preventing squirrel damage can be achieved by deterring squirrels from your garden using barriers or repellents.

Are There Any Plants or Foods That Squirrels Should Avoid in My Yard for Their Safety?

In your yard, there are certain plants and foods that squirrels should avoid to ensure their safety. Some plants, such as daffodils and lilies, can be toxic to squirrels. Additionally, certain foods, like chocolate or caffeine, can pose potential dangers to them.