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Squirrels do like walnuts, and for many species, walnuts are one of their favorite wild foods.
If you’ve ever watched a squirrel grab a walnut and dart up a tree, you already know the answer.
Squirrels like walnuts because they’re calorie-dense, easy to store, and packed with the fat and protein a squirrel needs to survive.
In this post, we’ll look at why squirrels like walnuts, which squirrels enjoy them most, whether walnuts are safe for squirrels, and how to offer them if you want to.
Let’s dig in.
Why Squirrels Like Walnuts
Squirrels like walnuts for a few very good reasons, and once you understand them, it’s easy to see why these nuts top the menu.
1. Walnuts Are a Calorie Powerhouse
Walnuts are loaded with healthy fats, and that’s a big deal for squirrels.
A single walnut can deliver a huge burst of energy compared to acorns or seeds.
Since squirrels burn through energy fast, walnuts help them stay fueled without foraging all day.
2. They’re Perfect for Caching
Squirrels like walnuts because the shell makes them ideal for storing.
A walnut in its shell stays fresh for months, which means a squirrel can bury it in fall and dig it up in winter.
That caching habit is why you sometimes find walnut shells in the strangest places.
3. The Shell Is a Challenge They Enjoy
Squirrels like walnuts partly because they’re a puzzle.
Gnawing through a tough shell keeps their teeth sharp and gives them something to do.
Black walnuts, in particular, have a rock-hard shell, and squirrels will work at them for a while.
4. Walnuts Are Packed With Nutrients
Beyond calories, walnuts give squirrels omega-3 fats, protein, and minerals.
Those nutrients support healthy fur, strong teeth, and steady energy through cold months.
So squirrels like walnuts not just for the taste, but for what’s inside.
Which Squirrels Like Walnuts Most
Do all squirrels like walnuts?
Most do, but some species go wild for them more than others.
1. Eastern Gray Squirrels
Eastern gray squirrels like walnuts a lot, and they’re the ones you’ll usually see raiding bird feeders.
They’ll grab a walnut and run for cover before another squirrel spots it.
2. Fox Squirrels
Fox squirrels like walnuts too, and they’re strong enough to crack bigger shells.
You’ll often find them working on walnuts on a fence post or a low branch.
3. Red Squirrels
Red squirrels like walnuts, but they’re smaller and more territorial about them.
They’ll stash a walnut fast and defend it from anyone who comes close.
4. Flying Squirrels
Flying squirrels like walnuts as well, though they usually visit at night.
They’ll carry walnuts back to their nests and snack in peace.
Are Walnuts Safe for Squirrels?
Walnuts are safe for squirrels when they’re plain and natural.
1. Skip the Salt and Seasoning
Salted or flavored walnuts are not good for squirrels.
Too much salt can dehydrate them, and added seasonings offer nothing but trouble.
Stick with raw or unsalted walnuts in the shell.
2. Avoid Moldy or Rancid Nuts
Old walnuts can grow mold, and moldy nuts are dangerous for squirrels.
If a walnut smells off or looks discolored, toss it rather than offer it.
3. Moderation Still Matters
Squirrels like walnuts, but they don’t need a whole bag.
A few walnuts a day is plenty, especially if they’re also eating natural foods.
4. Shelled vs. Unshelled
Shelled walnuts are fine for squirrels, but unshelled ones are better.
The shell keeps the nut fresh and gives the squirrel a healthy workout.
How to Offer Walnuts to Squirrels
If you want to feed squirrels walnuts, keep it simple.
1. Use a Stable Feeder or Platform
Place walnuts on a platform feeder or a flat rock away from traffic.
That keeps the nuts clean and gives squirrels a safe spot to eat.
2. Offer Them in the Shell
In-shell walnuts last longer and stay fresher.
Squirrels like walnuts in the shell because they can carry them off and cache them.
3. Keep the Area Clean
Remove leftover shells and spoiled nuts regularly.
A clean feeding spot keeps squirrels healthy and stops pests from moving in.
So, Do Squirrels Like Walnuts?
Squirrels do like walnuts, and for good reason.
Walnuts give them the fat, protein, and energy they need, and the shell makes them perfect for caching.
As long as you offer plain, unsalted walnuts in moderation, you can feel good about sharing.
Now you know why squirrels like walnuts, which squirrels enjoy them most, and how to feed them safely.