Can You Feed Squirrels Walnuts

Yes, you can feed squirrels walnuts, and they’re actually one of the best treats you can offer these bushy-tailed visitors.
 
Walnuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber that squirrels need to thrive, especially during colder months when food is scarce.
 
But there are a few important things to know before you start tossing walnuts to the squirrels in your backyard.
 
If you’ve been wondering “can you feed squirrels walnuts,” the short answer is absolutely yes, but how you feed them matters just as much as what you feed them.
 
In this post, we’ll explore why squirrels can eat walnuts, the health benefits walnuts provide, and the safest ways to offer them.
 
Let’s get into it so you can feed the squirrels in your yard with confidence.
 

Why You Can Feed Squirrels Walnuts

You can feed squirrels walnuts because they’re a natural, nutritious food source that squirrels would seek out in the wild anyway.
 
Here’s why walnuts make such a great choice:
 

1. Walnuts Are Part of a Squirrel’s Natural Diet

Squirrels naturally forage for nuts, seeds, and tree buds, and walnuts are right at the top of that list.
 
In the wild, squirrels crack open black walnuts and English walnuts that fall from trees, so offering them walnuts is simply replicating what they’d find on their own.
 
This is why you can feed squirrels walnuts without worrying about introducing something foreign to their diet.
 

2. Walnuts Provide Essential Healthy Fats

Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support a squirrel’s brain function, coat health, and overall energy levels.
 
These healthy fats are especially valuable in fall and winter when squirrels are packing on weight and storing food for the cold months ahead.
 
When you feed squirrels walnuts, you’re giving them a calorie-dense snack that helps them survive harsh weather.
 

3. Walnuts Deliver Protein and Fiber

Beyond fats, walnuts contain protein and fiber that keep squirrels feeling full and satisfied.
 
This makes walnuts a far better choice than processed human snacks like chips or crackers, which offer little nutritional value.
 
So if you’re going to feed squirrels anything, walnuts are one of the smartest options available.
 

How to Feed Squirrels Walnuts Safely

Knowing that you can feed squirrels walnuts is one thing, but doing it safely is another.
 
Here’s how to do it right:
 

1. Always Use Unsalted, Raw Walnuts

The walnuts you feed squirrels should always be raw and unsalted.
 
Salt is harmful to squirrels and can lead to dehydration, kidney issues, and other health problems over time.
 
Roasted walnuts often contain added oils and seasonings too, so stick with plain, raw walnuts whenever possible.
 

2. Avoid Walnuts with Mold or Discoloration

Before you feed squirrels walnuts, inspect them carefully for mold, dark spots, or a musty smell.
 
Moldy walnuts can contain mycotoxins that are toxic to squirrels and other wildlife.
 
When in doubt, throw it out and grab a fresh batch instead.
 

3. Offer Walnuts in Moderation

Even though you can feed squirrels walnuts, you shouldn’t let walnuts become their entire diet.
 
Squirrels need a varied diet of nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables to stay healthy.
 
A few walnuts a day per squirrel is plenty, especially if other neighbors are also feeding them.
 

4. Use a Feeder or Scatter Them Naturally

You can feed squirrels walnuts by placing them in a platform feeder or simply scattering them near trees and bushes.
 
Avoid hand-feeding, since squirrels can bite when they feel threatened, even if they seem tame.
 
Scattering walnuts also prevents overcrowding and keeps the squirrels from becoming too dependent on one spot.
 

Benefits of Feeding Squirrels Walnuts

When you feed squirrels walnuts, you’re doing more than just giving them a snack.
 
Here are some of the biggest benefits:
 

1. Supports Winter Survival

Walnuts give squirrels the fat reserves they need to make it through freezing temperatures.
 
A single walnut can provide a meaningful energy boost during a tough winter day.
 

2. Encourages Natural Foraging Behavior

Squirrels love to bury and cache walnuts, which keeps their natural instincts sharp.
 
Feeding them walnuts lets them engage in the burying and digging behaviors they’re wired for.
 

3. Keeps Them Away from Bird Feeders

If you feed squirrels walnuts in a dedicated spot, they’re less likely to raid your bird feeders.
 
It’s a simple trick that keeps everyone in the yard happy.
 

So, Can You Feed Squirrels Walnuts?

You can feed squirrels walnuts, and they’re one of the healthiest, most natural treats you can offer.
 
Just remember to use raw, unsalted walnuts, avoid moldy ones, and offer them in moderation alongside a varied diet.
 
Whether you scatter them on the ground or place them in a feeder, walnuts are a safe and nutritious choice for the squirrels in your neighborhood.
 
So go ahead and feed squirrels walnuts, knowing you’re giving them a treat they’ll truly enjoy.