Watching them dash along tree branches, chase each other, and effortlessly leap from one spot to another is like having a live-action comedy show right outside your window!
Attention fellow garden enthusiasts… Are you noticing some fluffy-tailed acrobats making appearances in your garden? Before you reach for the trap, please keep reading.
Those little critters, yes, squirrels, are not pests at all! In fact, they can bring life and entertainment to your outdoor space.
So, let’s dive into the world of squirrels and learn why they’re actually garden buddies and how you can attract them for some fun-filled moments.
Now, you might be wondering, “Why on earth would I want squirrels in my garden?”
Well, my friend, squirrels are nature’s playful acrobats.
Their boundless energy and agile moves can add a touch of excitement and joy to your backyard.
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But squirrels aren’t just entertainers; they also play a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
They assist in seed dispersal by burying nuts and sometimes forgetting where they stashed them (squirrels aren’t the best when it comes to memory!). Those forgotten caches can sprout into new plants, contributing to the growth and diversity of your garden. Talk about accidental gardening helpers!
Now, let’s get down to business and discuss some ways to attract these charismatic little creatures to your garden.
Here are a few tips that will have squirrels eagerly scampering into your backyard:
4 Easy Ways To Attract Squirrels
- Offer Nutty Treats: Squirrels have a penchant for nuts, so why not create a squirrel snack station? Place a designated feeder filled with nuts like peanuts, walnuts, or hazelnuts. It will become their go-to spot, and you'll have a front-row seat to their snacking shenanigans!
- Provide Water: Just like any other garden visitor, squirrels need a refreshing drink too. Place a shallow water dish or a small birdbath where they can quench their thirst. Trust me, watching squirrels take a sip or even playfully splash around can be pure entertainment.
- Plant Squirrel-Friendly Trees: Squirrels love trees, and certain tree species provide them with both shelter and food. Consider planting oak, hickory, or pine trees in your garden. These trees produce nuts that will not only keep your furry friends well-fed but also enhance the natural beauty of your outdoor space.
- Create a Squirrel Playground: To keep squirrels engaged and entertained, set up a little playground for them. Place some tree stumps, branches, or even a small squirrel-sized obstacle course. This will encourage their natural behaviors and provide them with an environment they'll love exploring. Who knows, you might witness some incredible squirrel acrobatics!
Remember, attracting squirrels to your garden isn’t about luring them away from their natural habitat. It’s about creating a harmonious environment where they can coexist with your plants and bring a sense of liveliness to your outdoor haven.
Corn Doesn't Do Much For Them
Squirrels are omnivorous with a diverse diet, including nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, fungi, and insects. While squirrels can eat corn, it’s not very nutritious for them.
Corn is high in carbohydrates but low in protein, which is an essential macronutrient for squirrels. Squirrels require a diet that is rich in fats and proteins, which they obtain from nuts and seeds.
Corn also lacks some crucial vitamins and minerals that squirrels need. Squirrels require calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin E, and certain B vitamins. While corn does contain some nutrients, it’s not as nutritionally dense as other foods commonly found in their natural habitats.
Watch squirrels in the wild, and you’ll notice that they focus on acorns, walnuts, and other tree nuts, as well as seeds from various plants. These foods provide a more balanced nutritional profile for squirrels.
Instead of corn, offer your backyard squirrels a mix of nuts, seeds, and fruits that are suitable for their dietary needs.
So, there you have it, my green-thumbed friends! Embrace the presence of squirrels in your garden, and you’ll soon discover the joy and laughter they can bring. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the show as these lively critters add a touch of whimsy to your gardening adventure.
And hey, if you happen to witness a friendly squirrel burying a nut in an unusual spot—let’s say, your sock drawer—consider it a little gift from nature. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a sprouting surprise among your socks one day!
Happy gardening and squirrel-watching!
FAQ
What can I feed the squirrels in my yard other than nuts?
You can offer those bushy tail bandits different fruits and vegetables like, apples, carrots, melons, strawberries, pumpkin, acorn and butternut squash, zucchini and summer squash.
Should I let a squirrel eat from my hands?
It’s not a good idea to feed squirrels from your hand because they could bite or scratch you if frightened. Also, it could cause them to lose their fear of humans, which could put them in dangerous situations. It’s best to let them eat from feeders.
Will squirrels use a house if I put one in my yard for them?
Yes, squirrels will happily move into a house for shelter and to raise their babies. You can build your own, or you can buy a premade squirrel house, there are designs available online, or you can also purchase a premade one online. Be sure to place your squirrel house at least 10 feet and up to 30 feet up in a tree, and that it’s not in direct sun or wind.