Can You Give Squirrels Walnuts

Yes, you can give squirrels walnuts, and they’re actually one of the best treats you can offer these bushy-tailed backyard visitors.
 
Walnuts are safe, nutritious, and packed with healthy fats that squirrels need to thrive.
 
If you’ve ever asked yourself “can I give squirrels walnuts?” the answer is a resounding yes.
 
These nuts are a natural part of many squirrel diets in the wild, so offering them is basically giving your furry friends something they’d find on their own.
 
In this post, we’ll look at why you can give squirrels walnuts, how to do it safely, and a few things to watch out for.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

Why You Can Give Squirrels Walnuts

You can give squirrels walnuts for plenty of good reasons, and here’s why they make such a great choice.
 

1. Walnuts Are Packed With Healthy Fats

Squirrels burn a ton of energy running, climbing, and foraging all day long.
 
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats that give squirrels the fuel they need to stay active.
 
That’s a big part of why you can give squirrels walnuts without worrying about their energy levels.
 

2. They Offer Protein and Key Nutrients

Beyond fats, walnuts provide protein, fiber, and important minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
 
These nutrients support strong bones, healthy fur, and a well-functioning immune system.
 
So when you give squirrels walnuts, you’re giving them a genuinely balanced snack.
 

3. Squirrels Naturally Eat Walnuts in the Wild

If you’ve ever watched a squirrel bury a nut in your yard, chances are it was a walnut or something similar.
 
Walnuts grow on trees that squirrels regularly raid, so this isn’t a foreign food to them at all.
 
That natural familiarity is another reason you can give squirrels walnuts with confidence.
 

4. They’re a Perfect Size for Caching

Squirrels love to stash food for later, and walnuts are ideal for this habit.
 
A single walnut is big enough to be worth burying but small enough to carry in their cheeks or paws.
 
This makes walnuts one of the most satisfying treats you can give squirrels.
 

How to Give Squirrels Walnuts Safely

Knowing you can give squirrels walnuts is one thing, but doing it the right way matters just as much.
 
Here’s how to keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone.
 

1. Always Use Unsalted, Plain Walnuts

This is the golden rule when you give squirrels walnuts.
 
Salted, roasted, or flavored walnuts can be harmful because squirrels don’t process excess salt well.
 
Stick to raw or plain walnuts with no added oil, sugar, or seasoning.
 

2. Stick to Small Portions

Even though you can give squirrels walnuts, moderation is key.
 
One or two walnuts per squirrel per day is plenty.
 
Too many nuts can lead to weight gain and make squirrels dependent on your handouts instead of foraging naturally.
 

3. Remove the Shell Only If You Want To

Whole walnuts in the shell are actually great because they give squirrels something to gnaw on, which keeps their teeth healthy.
 
If you give squirrels walnuts already shelled, that’s fine too, just make sure they’re fresh and not moldy.
 

4. Watch for Mold and Spoilage

Never give squirrels walnuts that look discolored, shriveled, or smell off.
 
Moldy nuts can contain toxins that are dangerous to squirrels and other wildlife.
 
When in doubt, throw it out before you give squirrels walnuts of questionable quality.
 

Things to Keep in Mind When You Give Squirrels Walnuts

There are a few extra details worth knowing before you make walnuts a regular offering.
 

1. Avoid Feeding During Certain Seasons

In late fall, squirrels are busy caching food for winter.
 
It’s still fine to give squirrels walnuts then, but don’t overdo it, since they need to keep their natural foraging skills sharp.
 

2. Keep Other Wildlife in Mind

If you give squirrels walnuts, other animals like raccoons, birds, or even bears may show up.
 
If that’s a concern in your area, feed in small amounts and clean up leftovers.
 

3. Fresh Water Matters Too

Nuts are dry, so squirrels appreciate a water source nearby.
 
A shallow dish of fresh water pairs perfectly with the walnuts you give squirrels.
 

4. Don’t Make It the Only Food Source

You can give squirrels walnuts as a treat, but they should still rely on natural foods like seeds, buds, and fruits.
 
Think of walnuts as a supplement, not a replacement for their wild diet.
 

So, Can You Give Squirrels Walnuts?

Yes, you can give squirrels walnuts, and they make a safe, nutritious, and genuinely enjoyable treat for these lively little creatures.
 
Walnuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and nutrients that squirrels need, and they’re a natural part of what squirrels eat in the wild.
 
Just remember to use plain, unsalted walnuts, keep portions small, and watch out for mold or spoilage.
 
So go ahead and give squirrels walnuts, and enjoy watching them scamper off to bury their tasty prize.