Do Squirrels Like Walnuts

Squirrels do like walnuts, and walnuts are actually one of their favorite foods.
 
If you’ve ever watched a squirrel scamper across your yard with a walnut in its mouth, you already know the answer.
 
These bushy-tailed foragers will go out of their way to get walnuts because they’re nutritious, easy to store, and packed with the fat and protein squirrels need to survive.
 
In this post, we’ll explore why squirrels like walnuts, how they eat them, and whether it’s okay to feed walnuts to the squirrels in your neighborhood.
 
Let’s crack this open.
 

Why Squirrels Like Walnuts

Squirrels like walnuts for several solid reasons, and once you understand those reasons, it’s easy to see why walnuts show up on their menu so often.
 

1. Walnuts Are Packed With Healthy Fats

Walnuts contain a rich supply of healthy fats, which makes them a high-energy snack for squirrels.
 
A squirrel’s day is basically a nonstop workout of climbing, jumping, and digging.
 
That takes serious fuel, and the fats in walnuts deliver exactly that.
 
So when a squirrel finds a walnut, it’s like finding a little energy bar in a shell.
 

2. Walnuts Offer Protein and Nutrients

Beyond fat, walnuts give squirrels protein, fiber, and important minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
 
These nutrients support a squirrel’s muscles, bones, and overall health.
 
A squirrel that eats walnuts regularly is getting a well-rounded snack that helps it stay strong and active.
 

3. The Hard Shell Is Part of the Fun

Squirrels like walnuts because of the challenge, too.
 
That tough outer shell isn’t a dealbreaker for them, it’s an invitation.
 
Squirrels have strong teeth and jaws built for cracking nuts, and they seem to genuinely enjoy the process.
 
So the shell doesn’t stop squirrels from eating walnuts, it just makes the reward feel earned.
 

4. Walnuts Store Well for Later

Squirrels are famous for burying food, and walnuts are perfect for that habit.
 
The shells protect the nut inside for months, which means a buried walnut can still be a good meal when winter rolls around.
 
This makes walnuts a smart choice for squirrels that like to plan ahead.
 

How Squirrels Eat Walnuts

Squirrels eat walnuts in a few different ways depending on the situation and how hungry they are.
 

1. Cracking Them Open on the Spot

If a squirrel is hungry right now, it will usually find a sturdy spot and start gnawing through the shell.
 
Squirrels rotate the walnut with their paws, working their teeth around the seam until it splits.
 
Once the shell gives way, they pull out the nut inside and eat it quickly.
 

2. Burying Them for Later

When squirrels find more walnuts than they can eat, they bury the extras.
 
This behavior is called caching, and it’s one of the main reasons squirrels like walnuts so much.
 
A single squirrel can bury thousands of nuts in a season, and walnuts are a top pick because they keep well underground.
 

3. Eating Them Shell and All

Sometimes squirrels eat walnuts shell and all, especially if the shell is thin or the squirrel is in a hurry.
 
This doesn’t hurt them, since their digestive systems can handle the roughage.
 
Still, most squirrels prefer to strip the shell first when they have the time.
 

Can You Feed Walnuts to Squirrels?

You can feed walnuts to squirrels, and they’ll almost always be thrilled about it.
 

1. Stick With Plain, Unsalted Walnuts

The best walnuts to feed squirrels are raw and unsalted.
 
Salt and added oils aren’t good for squirrels, so skip the roasted and flavored kinds.
 
Plain walnuts in the shell are the safest and most natural option.
 

2. Don’t Overdo It

Even though squirrels like walnuts, they shouldn’t live on them alone.
 
Walnuts are high in fat, so they should be a treat, not the whole diet.
 
A handful here and there is plenty to keep your local squirrels happy and healthy.
 

3. Watch for Moldy Nuts

Always check that the walnuts you offer aren’t moldy or rancid.
 
Moldy nuts can make squirrels sick, so fresh is always better.
 
If it smells off to you, don’t give it to them.
 

4. Keep It Consistent but Modest

If you start feeding squirrels walnuts, they’ll remember your yard.
 
That’s fine, but keep portions small so they still forage naturally.
 
Squirrels that rely too much on handouts can lose some of their wild skills.
 

Do Squirrels Like Walnuts More Than Other Nuts?

Squirrels like walnuts a lot, but whether they prefer them over other nuts depends on the squirrel.
 

1. Walnuts vs. Acorns

Acorns are a natural staple for many squirrels, but walnuts often win when both are available.
 
Walnuts have a higher fat content and a softer shell, which makes them easier and more rewarding to eat.
 

2. Walnuts vs. Peanuts

Peanuts are popular with squirrels, but they’re actually legumes, not true nuts.
 
Walnuts are denser and more nutritious, so many squirrels will pick a walnut over a peanut when given the choice.
 

3. Walnuts vs. Pecans and Almonds

Pecans and almonds are also favorites, and squirrels rarely turn any of them down.
 
But walnuts hold up well in storage and have that tough shell squirrels love to work on.
 
So while squirrels like walnuts, they’ll happily eat whatever nuts they can find.
 

So, Do Squirrels Like Walnuts?

Squirrels do like walnuts, and walnuts are one of their favorite foods.
 
They’re rich in healthy fats, full of protein, and protected by a shell that squirrels enjoy cracking open.
 
Whether you’re watching them bury walnuts in your yard or feeding them a few plain ones on your deck, it’s clear squirrels like walnuts a whole lot.
 
Just keep the servings modest and the nuts fresh, and both you and your neighborhood squirrels will enjoy the show.