We’ve all seen it— a squirrel running around the yard with an acorn or nut in its mouth. But despite what many people may think, squirrels don’t eat only nuts. Squirrels are omnivores, and they feed on a variety of foods such as nuts, vegetables, fruits, plants, insects, and meat.
And depending on the type of squirrel, they have different eating habits. In fact, most squirrels eat a varied diet, especially in the urban environments in Ontario. If you’re looking for more expert advice or have a squirrel problem in Hamilton of your own, consider reaching out to a professional squirrel removal Hamilton service to help you.
What Kind of Foods do Squirrels Eat?
Squirrels are quite adaptable to their environment, so they will eat the natural foods in their surroundings such as native flowers, fruits, vegetables, fungi, nuts, plants, insects, and even the fruits and vegetables in your garden and trees.
The majority of their diet, however, consists of hard mast such as walnuts, seeds, hickory nuts, and acorns. Squirrels can’t eat cellulose, so they will only eat green plants, twigs, and bark if they are desperate. On average, a squirrel will eat up to one pound of food per week.
They are also scavengers— they will find food left on the ground or in trash cans such as candy bars and cereal. However, these kinds of foods are not healthy for squirrels and therefore it’s advisable not to feed them these foods.
How Do Squirrels Eat Food?
Squirrels love to build nests between large holes in between tree branches, so they store food in these nests for the colder months. Squirrels will also dig in the ground and plant seeds and nuts and return to dig it out when they need it. Because they have strong olfactory senses, they will be able to smell their cached food even with 30 centimetres of snow on top.
During the winter months, squirrels will use the food they have stored up in the ground or in the nests of trees.
When it comes to feeding baby squirrels, the mothers will breastfeed her offspring until they are ready to venture out on their own.
Call a Professional Wildlife Removal Expert
Feeding squirrels is one thing; dealing with a squirrel infestation is another. If you have a squirrel infestation or want to prevent a squirrel from invading your home, consider calling a professional wildlife removal expert for your squirrel needs.
Experts will be able to work with you to come up with a detailed plan to solve any squirrel problem you may have.