Squirrel Food

Squirrel Food for Garden Visitors

Feeding squirrels can be a fun, wildlife-friendly way to support grey squirrels when natural food is running low, and a way to help endangered red squirrels. The key is choosing a well balanced diet, think quality nuts and seeds, served in sensible portions, so you’re helping without creating messy scraps or attracting unwanted pests.

Why A Balanced Mix Matters

Squirrels burn a lot of energy, and their diet needs to be nutrient-dense. Good squirrel food supports:

• Energy (especially during cold weather)
• Growth and condition (coat, body weight, overall health)
• Teeth wear (hard foods help keep teeth in check)

What to Feed Squirrels (And What to Avoid)

A strong staple mix like our specialised food looks close to what squirrels eat naturally: seeds, nuts, and the occasional fruit or veg treat.

It contains:

• Peanuts (unsalted, dry, good quality)
• Sunflower seeds
• Maize
• Grains
• Nutrient-rich pellets

If you’re putting treats in squirrel feeders:

• Apples (small chunks)
• Berries
• Carrots (thin slices)

What to avoid:

Avoid feeding bread or anything processed, plus sugary snacks like candy or chocolate, as they’re low in nutrition and can cause problems. Skip salted or roasted nuts too, and always bin anything mouldy. If something smells off or looks questionable, don’t risk it.

How to Feed Squirrels Without Upsetting the Birds

If you’re also feeding birds, a little planning helps everyone dine peacefully.

• Use a squirrel feeder or dedicated feeding station to reduce waste.
• Place squirrel food away from your bird feeders so squirrels don’t learn to raid bird food.
• Offer small portions and top up as needed. This is better for hygiene and your wallet.
• Clear leftover shells and scraps to keep the area near your squirrel boxes tidy.

Storage Tips for Freshness

Squirrel food stays fresh, safe, and nutritional when you store it properly, and good habits also encourage regular, healthy feeding without waste. Keep it cool, dry, and sealed in a lidded tub, use older stock first rather than mixing new into old, and if anything smells musty or looks damp, throw it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can squirrels eat bird seed or bird food?

Yes, many squirrels will eat the bird food and seed you put out, however, for better nutrition (and less feeder drama), it’s best to offer squirrel food in a separate squirrel feeder.

How do I stop squirrels taking over my bird feeders?

Create two zones: bird feeders near cover, and a squirrel feeding station further away. Once squirrels have their own reliable spot, they often stop poking around bird feeders.

What’s the best squirrel food for winter months?

Our specialist food works well year round, but for homemade mixes, go heavier on high-energy nuts like peanuts and walnuts, plus seeds for steady calories. Keep portions sensible and remove leftovers so nothing goes damp.

What should I feed baby squirrels?

Don’t feed squirrels bread or cow’s milk, as both can cause serious harm. Keep it warm and contact a local wildlife rescue like the Wildlife Trusts for urgent advice.