10 Best Foods for Squirrels to Keep Them Happy and Healthy

I’ve found that the best squirrel foods combine high-quality nuts like walnuts and peanuts with nutrient-dense seeds, fresh fruits, and specialized wildlife blends that meet their seasonal nutritional needs. Premium options include Kaytee Backyard Wildlife Food Blend, raw in-shell peanuts that encourage natural foraging behaviors, and complete diets featuring sweet potatoes, cranberries, and dried insects for dental health. These balanced combinations provide essential proteins, healthy fats, and fiber while keeping squirrels satisfied and away from bird feeders, though proper storage and seasonal rotation release their full potential.

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Notable Insights

• Tree nuts like acorns, walnuts, and almonds provide essential healthy fats and proteins that squirrels need for energy and overall health.
• Raw peanuts in shells encourage natural foraging behaviors while delivering high-protein nutrition that supports growth and reproduction cycles.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables offer vital fiber, vitamins, and minerals that promote digestive health and boost immune system function.
• Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds supply nutrient-dense fats and encourage natural chewing behaviors that maintain dental health.
• Specialized wildlife food blends containing varied ingredients provide balanced nutrition while accommodating different squirrel species’ dietary preferences.

Kaytee Backyard Wildlife Food Blend (5 Pound)

When you’re seeking a reliable, nutritionally balanced food option for multiple backyard species, Kaytee Backyard Wildlife Food Blend stands out as an exceptional choice that caters to squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and other wildlife visitors. This specially formulated 5-pound blend supplements natural diets with favorite ingredients, ensuring your backyard friends receive essential nutrition throughout the seasons. With impressive 4.6-star ratings from nearly 10,000 customers, this trusted product demonstrates consistent quality and wildlife appeal. You’ll need to store the blend in a cool, dry location using a sealed container to prevent insect infestation common with whole grain products. Regular feeder cleaning and fresh food replacement maintain ideal feeding conditions for healthy wildlife.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts who want to attract and nourish multiple backyard species including squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and other small wildlife with a nutritionally balanced food blend.

Pros:

• High customer satisfaction with 4.6 out of 5 stars from nearly 10,000 reviews, demonstrating proven appeal to wildlife
• Specially formulated to supplement natural diets with favorite ingredients for multiple species in one convenient blend
• Comes with a satisfaction guarantee allowing returns of unused portions if not completely satisfied

Cons:

• Requires proper storage in sealed containers and cool, dry conditions to prevent insect infestation common with whole grain products
• Needs regular maintenance including frequent feeder cleaning and discarding old food before refilling
• Only comes in a 5-pound size which may be too large for occasional users or too small for those feeding many animals

Audubon Park Squirrel & Critter Food, 15-lb. Bag

Backyard wildlife enthusiasts who want to create a dedicated feeding station will find Audubon Park Squirrel & Critter Food an excellent solution for attracting multiple species while protecting bird feeders. This 15-pound bag contains a nutritious blend of crunchy corn, sunflower seeds, and peanuts that appeals to squirrels, chipmunks, jays, and woodpeckers. You’ll appreciate how this food mix serves a dual purpose, providing essential nutrition while diverting critters from your bird feeding areas. The versatile feeding options allow you to use squirrel feeders, platform feeders, table feeders, or scatter directly on the ground for maximum accessibility and wildlife engagement.

Best For: Backyard wildlife enthusiasts who want to attract squirrels, chipmunks, jays, and woodpeckers while keeping these critters away from bird feeders.

Pros:

• Contains a nutritious mix of crunchy corn, sunflower seeds, and peanuts that appeals to multiple wildlife species
• Serves dual purpose of feeding wildlife while diverting critters from bird feeding areas
• Offers versatile feeding options including squirrel feeders, platform feeders, table feeders, or ground scattering

Cons:

• 15-pound bag size may be too large for casual wildlife feeders with limited storage space
• Ground feeding option may attract unwanted pests or create mess in yard areas
• No specific nutritional information provided for different wildlife species’ dietary needs

Kaytee Corn On The Cob, 6.5 lb

Kaytee Corn On The Cob delivers exceptional value for wildlife enthusiasts who want to attract multiple species while creating a natural feeding environment in their outdoor spaces. This 6.5-pound package provides whole corn cobs that appeal to squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and deer, making it an excellent choice for supporting backyard biodiversity. You can place these cobs in specialized feeders, scatter them on the ground, or use them strategically to redirect wildlife away from bird feeders.

The product’s impressive 4.5-star rating from over 10,000 customers demonstrates its effectiveness, though you’ll want to inspect cobs upon arrival and store them properly to maintain freshness and prevent mold issues.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts who want to attract squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and deer to their backyard while creating a natural feeding environment and potentially diverting animals away from bird feeders.

Pros:

• Attracts multiple wildlife species including squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and deer for enhanced backyard observation
• Versatile feeding options – can be used in feeders, tray feeders, or scattered directly on the ground
• Strong customer satisfaction with 4.5-star rating from over 10,000 reviews and #1 ranking in squirrel supplies

Cons:

• Quality control issues reported including occasional mold, missing kernels, and broken cobs
• Requires proper storage after opening to maintain freshness and prevent deterioration
• Wildlife may not show immediate interest, requiring patience for animals to discover and use the feeding area

Wagners 62046 Backyard Wildlife Food, 8-Pound Bag

Wagner’s 62046 Backyard Wildlife Food offers an effective solution for gardeners who want to redirect squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits away from expensive bird feeders while still providing proper nutrition. This 8-pound bag contains specially formulated ingredients that keep small mammals satisfied, reducing their motivation to raid your carefully maintained bird feeding stations. You can scatter this wildlife food directly on the ground or use a platform feeder for organized distribution throughout your yard.

The strategic feeding approach creates a win-win situation, allowing you to enjoy watching backyard wildlife while protecting your bird seed investments. Made in the USA, this product helps you experience that close-to-nature feeling while maintaining harmony in your backyard ecosystem.

Best For: Homeowners who want to feed backyard wildlife like squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits while keeping them away from bird feeders.

Pros:

• Effectively diverts small animals from expensive bird seed feeders
• Can be used flexibly by scattering on ground or using platform feeders
• Made in the USA with specially formulated nutrition for small mammals

Cons:

• May attract more wildlife to your yard than desired
• Requires regular refilling and maintenance like any feeding program
• Could potentially create dependency in local wildlife populations

Squirrel Complete Natural Food Diet (4 lb.)

When you’re committed to providing ideal nutrition for your backyard wildlife, Squirrel Complete Natural Food Diet offers a scientifically formulated, 4-pound package that meets the extensive dietary needs of ground squirrels, grey squirrels, flying squirrels, and chipmunks. This nutritionally complete blend combines sweet potatoes, corn, pumpkin seeds, cranberries, apples, and rose hips with dried insects for essential animal proteins. The nuts and pellets promote dental health through natural chewing exercise, supporting your squirrels’ oral care needs. Made in small batches to guarantee freshness and quality, this versatile formula assures balanced nutrition across multiple squirrel species in your garden habitat.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts who want to provide nutritionally complete, natural food for ground squirrels, grey squirrels, flying squirrels, and chipmunks in their backyard habitat.

Pros:

• Scientifically formulated with natural ingredients like sweet potatoes, cranberries, and dried insects for complete nutrition
• Promotes dental health through nuts and pellets that encourage natural chewing exercise
• Made in small batches to ensure freshness and quality, suitable for multiple squirrel species

Cons:

• 4-pound package may be too large for occasional feeders or those with limited storage space
• Contains dried insects which some people may find unappealing to handle
• Higher cost compared to basic seed mixes due to premium natural ingredients and small-batch production

Pennington Pride Squirrel & Critter Blend (10-lb. Bag)

Pennington Pride Squirrel & Critter Blend offers backyard wildlife enthusiasts a strategic solution for managing feeding stations while attracting diverse animals. This 10-pound blend combines corn, sunflower seeds, and peanuts, creating an irresistible mixture that’ll keep squirrels, chipmunks, and other critters satisfied. You’ll appreciate the BIRD-KOTE technology that enriches this formula with essential vitamins and nutrients, ensuring your visiting wildlife receives balanced nutrition throughout the year. The versatile feeding options include squirrel feeders, tray feeders, or simple ground scattering, giving you flexibility in placement strategies. Position this blend away from bird feeders to redirect persistent squirrels while supporting various wildlife species.

Best For: Backyard wildlife enthusiasts who want to attract squirrels, chipmunks, and other critters while keeping them away from bird feeders.

Pros:

• Contains nutrient-enriched formula with BIRD-KOTE technology for balanced wildlife nutrition
• Versatile feeding options including squirrel feeders, tray feeders, or ground scattering
• High customer satisfaction with 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 1,500 ratings

Cons:

• May attract unwanted wildlife like deer and rabbits to your yard
• Requires strategic placement away from bird feeders which may limit convenient locations
• 10-pound bag size may be too large for casual wildlife feeders with limited storage

Squirrel Treat (3 oz.) – Healthy Natural Nut & Vegetable Treat

Three ounces of carefully selected nuts and vegetables make this natural treat blend an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts who want to provide nutritious supplementation for flying, ground, and tree squirrels. You’ll find walnuts, almonds, pistachios, dried carrot, and pumpkin seeds combined to deliver essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C. This compact package offers versatile feeding options, allowing you to serve treats alone, incorporate them into foraging toys, or mix them with regular diets for behavioral enrichment. You should limit treats to 2-3 times weekly, ensuring they comprise less than 10% of your squirrels’ main diet to prevent nutritional imbalances and obesity.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and backyard squirrel feeders who want to provide nutritious supplemental treats for flying, ground, and tree squirrels while promoting dental health and behavioral enrichment.

Pros:

• Contains high-quality natural ingredients like walnuts, almonds, pistachios, dried carrot, and pumpkin seeds that provide essential nutrients including protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C
• Offers versatile feeding options allowing use as standalone treats, in foraging toys, or mixed with regular diet to encourage natural behaviors
• Promotes dental health and behavioral enrichment while strengthening the bond between pet owners and their squirrels

Cons:

• Small 3-ounce package size may not provide good value for the price according to customer feedback
• Mixed acceptance rates among squirrels, with some preferring alternative food options over this particular treat blend
• Requires careful portion control and feeding frequency monitoring to prevent overfeeding and ensure treats don’t exceed 10% of the main diet

Wagners 82072 Gourmet Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Food, 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

Wildlife enthusiasts seeking a premium feeding solution will find Wagners 82072 Gourmet Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Food delivers exceptional nutritional value for both birds and visiting squirrels. This five-pound blend contains five highly nutritious foods, creating an all-natural mix rich in healthy proteins and fats that squirrels crave. The formula’s natural fruits and nuts provide essential nutrients, supporting year-round energy needs for active squirrels in your backyard habitat. You’ll attract various wildlife species, from cardinals and chickadees to energetic squirrels seeking hearty, satisfying treats that promote ideal health and wellness throughout changing seasons.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts who want to attract and nourish a variety of backyard birds including cardinals, chickadees, and jays with a premium, all-natural blend of nuts and fruits.

Pros:

• Contains five highly nutritious foods with healthy proteins and fats for optimal bird health
• All-natural mix of fruits and nuts appeals to both small and large beak songbirds
• Provides year-round entertainment and energy support for backyard birds

Cons:

• 5-pound package may not last long with heavy bird traffic or multiple feeding stations
• Premium nut and fruit blend likely costs more than basic seed mixes
• May attract squirrels and other wildlife that could monopolize feeders

Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs – Raw, Unsalted

Raw, unsalted peanuts in shell stand out as an exceptional choice for wildlife enthusiasts who want to provide squirrels with nutritionally dense, species-appropriate food that mirrors their natural foraging behavior. Naturalee’s two-pound package delivers premium American-grown peanuts that offer high protein content, supporting healthy muscle development and energy levels in backyard wildlife. You’ll appreciate that these gluten-free, vegan nuts contain no added salt or preservatives, which can harm squirrels’ delicate digestive systems and overall health. The hard shell provides mental stimulation through natural cracking behavior, encouraging squirrels to engage their problem-solving instincts while accessing the nutritious kernels inside.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and backyard animal lovers who want to provide squirrels and other wildlife with nutritious, species-appropriate food that encourages natural foraging behavior.

Pros:

• High protein content supports healthy muscle development and energy levels in wildlife
• Raw and unsalted with no preservatives, making them safe for squirrels’ delicate digestive systems
• Hard shells provide mental stimulation and encourage natural cracking behavior for problem-solving exercise

Cons:

• Shells create mess and debris that requires cleanup in feeding areas
• May attract unwanted pests or larger animals to your yard
• Two-pound package size may be too large for occasional wildlife feeding

Old Potters Wildlife Shelled Peanuts, 10 lbs for Birds & Squirrels

Premium nutrition takes center stage when you’re selecting the ideal food source for your backyard visitors, and Old Potters Wildlife Shelled Peanuts deliver exceptional quality that sets them apart from standard offerings. You’ll appreciate the convenience of pre-shelled peanuts, which eliminate preparation time while providing immediate access for hungry squirrels and birds. These non-GMO peanuts come from small American farms, ensuring freshness and supporting local agriculture with every purchase. The protein-rich composition supplies essential nutrients that boost energy levels, promoting healthy development and vibrant coats in visiting wildlife. This ten-pound bag offers excellent value for consistent feeding programs throughout seasons.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and backyard hobbyists who want to provide high-quality, convenient nutrition for birds and squirrels while supporting local agriculture.

Pros:

• Pre-shelled convenience saves time and provides immediate access for wildlife
• Non-GMO peanuts sourced from small American farms ensure quality and freshness
• High-protein, nutrient-rich composition supports wildlife health and energy levels

Cons:

• 10-pound bag size may be too large for casual or infrequent feeders
• Shelled peanuts may spoil faster than unshelled varieties if not stored properly
• Higher cost compared to generic wildlife feed options due to premium sourcing

Factors to Consider When Choosing Food for Squirrels

When I’m selecting food for the squirrels in my yard, I consider several essential factors that guarantee these backyard visitors receive proper nutrition throughout the year. The nutritional value, ingredient quality, and species-specific needs form the foundation of smart feeding choices, while seasonal considerations help me adjust portions and food types accordingly. I’ve learned that proper storage methods and freshness standards make the difference between attracting healthy, active squirrels and potentially harming these clever creatures with spoiled or inappropriate foods.

Nutritional Value Requirements

Understanding squirrel nutrition starts with recognizing that these active creatures need a carefully balanced diet containing proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to thrive. I’ve found that healthy fats from nuts and seeds are particularly vital, especially during winter months when squirrels require extra energy to maintain their body temperature. High-fiber ingredients like fresh fruits and vegetables promote ideal digestive health while supporting their naturally active lifestyles and foraging behaviors.

When selecting foods, I recommend focusing on whole grains, varied fruits, and nutrient-dense vegetables that provide essential antioxidants to boost immune system function. You’ll want to offer diverse food sources that mimic their natural foraging patterns, as different nutritional requirements emerge throughout various life stages and seasonal changes.

Ingredient Quality Standards

Quality ingredients form the foundation of any effective squirrel feeding program, directly impacting both their immediate health and long-term wellbeing. I always prioritize high-quality nuts, seeds, and fruits that provide essential nutrients, energy, and support balanced dietary needs. You’ll want to avoid products containing artificial additives, preservatives, or chemical enhancers that can harm squirrels’ digestive systems.

I recommend seeking foods with whole grains and natural proteins, including dried insects, which promote healthy growth and development. Freshness matters considerably, so I suggest choosing products made in small batches and stored properly to prevent mold, rancidity, and pest infestations. Look for nutritional supplements like vitamins and minerals that create complete diets tailored to specific squirrel species, ensuring optimal health and vigor throughout their lives.

Species-Specific Dietary Needs

Although many people assume all squirrels eat the same foods, each species has evolved distinct dietary preferences that reflect their unique habitats, foraging behaviors, and nutritional requirements. Eastern Gray squirrels primarily thrive on tree nuts like acorns and walnuts, while Flying squirrels prefer softer foods including fruits, fungi, and occasional insects. Ground squirrels require more diverse nutrition, combining plant matter with protein-rich insects to support their burrowing lifestyle and higher metabolic demands.

I’ve found that understanding these species-specific needs helps me provide targeted nutrition that promotes ideal health. Tree-dwelling species benefit from harder nuts that encourage natural gnawing behaviors, whereas ground-dwelling varieties need varied textures and nutrients. Recognizing your local squirrel species allows you to offer appropriate foods that support their natural foraging instincts and dietary requirements.

Seasonal Feeding Considerations

Seasonal feeding patterns require careful attention to timing, food types, and environmental factors that change throughout the year. I’ve found that winter months demand your most consistent effort, as snow cover makes natural foraging nearly impossible for squirrels. During this critical period, I recommend maintaining well-stocked feeding stations with high-fat options like nuts and seeds.

Spring and summer feeding shifts toward high-protein foods that support growth and active reproduction cycles. I always change food regularly during hot, humid months since moisture accelerates spoilage quickly. Fall preparation becomes essential when I shift to energy-dense foods that help squirrels build fat reserves. Different species respond to varied food types, so I suggest offering diverse options throughout seasonal shifts to attract multiple squirrel varieties effectively.

Storage and Freshness

When selecting foods for your backyard squirrels, proper storage techniques become just as important as choosing nutritious options. I recommend resealing packages immediately after opening and storing them in cool, dry locations to maintain peak freshness. Whole grain seed products, which squirrels love, are particularly vulnerable to insect infestations, so I always transfer them to sealed containers for long-term storage.

Regular maintenance of your feeding routine guarantees squirrel health and safety. I replace old food in feeders consistently, preventing exposure to harmful mold and bacteria that can develop over time. Cleaning feeders regularly eliminates contaminant buildup that leads to spoilage and potential health issues. Upon receiving new products, I check quality immediately and store them properly, which greatly extends shelf life and keeps your squirrel food fresh longer.

Package Size Options

Three primary factors guide your decision about squirrel food package sizes, ensuring you make the most practical choice for your feeding situation. I recommend considering your storage capacity first, as larger 10-15 pound packages require adequate space and proper containers to maintain freshness. Next, evaluate your local wildlife population and their consumption patterns, which determines how quickly you’ll need to restock your supplies. Smaller 4-pound packages work well if you’re testing different food types or feeding fewer animals, while larger bags offer better value for consistent feeders. Finally, assess your budget and feeding frequency preferences, since bulk purchases typically reduce per-pound costs but require higher upfront investment. Match package size to your specific circumstances for best results.

Natural Vs Processed

Understanding the fundamental differences between natural and processed squirrel foods helps you make informed decisions that directly impact your backyard visitors’ health and wellbeing. Natural foods like whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fruits deliver essential nutrients that boost growth, energy levels, and overall liveliness in squirrels. These wholesome options encourage natural foraging behaviors, providing essential mental stimulation and physical activity that keeps squirrels engaged and healthy.

I’ve found that processed foods often contain unnecessary additives and preservatives that can cause health problems when consumed regularly. Quality natural diets featuring diverse ingredients such as sweet potatoes, corn, and various seeds guarantee balanced vitamin, mineral, and protein intake. Natural foods typically offer superior quality assurance through small-batch production methods that maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

On a final note

I’ve provided you with ten excellent food options that’ll keep your backyard squirrels thriving throughout the seasons. Whether you choose premium blends like Kaytee’s wildlife food, natural corn cobs, or simple shelled peanuts, you’re investing in their health and happiness. Remember to reflect on nutritional balance, seasonal availability, and your local squirrel population when selecting foods. With these quality options, you’ll create a welcoming habitat that supports these entertaining, acrobatic creatures year-round.