Knowing what to feed squirrels is important. By feeding squirrels, you can distract them from your bird feeders and help them thrive.
Do squirrels become dependent on feeders?
Is it bad to feed squirrels? Wildlife experts agree it's not a great idea for several reasons. First, they can survive just fine on their own. Second, when well-intentioned humans start giving squirrels food, they become dependent on those handouts.
Should I stop feeding the squirrels?
It's okay to feed squirrels, but only in moderation. If regularly, you risk making it dependent on you for food. This potentially promotes an aggressive behavior of food expectation. It can also hurt the squirrel's chances of survival due to starvation if you suddenly decide not to continue feeding it regularly.
Do squirrels know you feed them?
Squirrels have great memories and can become accustomed to humans that regularly leave them food. However no real attachment forms because they are inherently wild. Research has shown that squirrels remember people that feed them, especially if orphaned and raised by a human.
Can a squirrel overeat?
Most urban squirrels are highly opportunistic feeders and will eat anything they can find such as ice cream, cake, candy bars and etc. These human foods are NOT good for us, they are definitely not good for squirrels. If you are feeding wildlife in your backyard, then make sure that you avoid overfeeding them.
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