Sure, squirrels are fascinating critters, and as a squirrel feeder supplier, I get asked a ton of questions about what to put in those feeders. One of the most common questions is, "Can I put seeds in a squirrel feeder?" Well, let's dig into this topic and find out.
First off, seeds are a natural part of a squirrel's diet. In the wild, squirrels munch on all sorts of seeds from trees like pine, oak, and hickory. They're like little nut - and - seed connoisseurs! So, yeah, you can definitely put seeds in a squirrel feeder. It's a great way to mimic their natural food sources and keep them well - fed.
There are different types of seeds you can use. Sunflower seeds are a huge hit with squirrels. They're easy for squirrels to crack open, and they're packed with nutrients like protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. You can get both black oil sunflower seeds and striped sunflower seeds. Black oil sunflower seeds have a thinner shell, which makes them even easier for squirrels to access.
Another good option is pumpkin seeds. These are also full of good stuff like zinc, magnesium, and fiber. Just make sure to use unsalted pumpkin seeds. Salted seeds can be bad for squirrels, just like too much salt is bad for us humans.
Safflower seeds are another choice. Some squirrels might not be as crazy about them as sunflower seeds, but they're still a healthy addition. They're high in protein and have a hard shell, which can give squirrels a bit of a challenge when opening them.
Now, let's talk about our squirrel feeders. We offer a variety of high - quality feeders that are perfect for holding seeds. For example, our Pine Wood Squirrel Feeder is made from natural pine wood. It's sturdy and has multiple feeding ports, so several squirrels can eat at once. The design allows for easy filling of seeds, and the wood is treated to withstand the elements, so it'll last a long time in your yard.
Our Garden Squirrel Feeder is a great option for those who want a feeder that blends in with their garden. It has a beautiful design that looks like a little house. The large seed compartment can hold a good amount of seeds, and the easy - access doors make refilling a breeze.
If you're looking for something a bit more rustic, our Bark Wood Squirrel Feeder is the way to go. It's made from bark - covered wood, giving it a natural look. The feeder has a unique shape that squirrels seem to love. It has a slanted roof to keep the seeds dry, and the seed trays are designed to prevent spillage.
When you're filling your squirrel feeder with seeds, there are a few things to keep in mind. You don't want to overfill it. If you put too many seeds in at once, they can get moldy, especially in humid weather. It's better to fill the feeder with a small amount of seeds and refill it regularly. This way, the seeds stay fresh, and the squirrels always have access to good - quality food.
Also, make sure to place the feeder in a good location. Squirrels like to feel safe when they're eating. So, put the feeder near trees or bushes where they can quickly dart to safety if they sense danger. It should also be at a height that's easy for squirrels to reach but out of the reach of pets like dogs.
Some people might worry about attracting too many squirrels. While it's true that a well - stocked feeder can draw in a lot of squirrels, it's usually not a problem. Squirrels are part of the ecosystem, and they can be fun to watch. However, if you start noticing that there are too many squirrels and they're causing issues like digging up your garden, you can reduce the amount of food you put in the feeder.
In addition to seeds, you can also offer other treats in the feeder. Nuts like peanuts, almonds, and walnuts are great. Just make sure they're unsalted. You can also add some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. These can add a bit of variety to the squirrels' diet.
So, to sum it up, yes, you can definitely put seeds in a squirrel feeder. Seeds are a natural and healthy part of a squirrel's diet, and our squirrel feeders are designed to hold and dispense seeds effectively. Whether you choose sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or safflower seeds, your local squirrels are going to love munching on them.
If you're interested in purchasing one of our squirrel feeders, we'd love to talk to you. We can help you choose the right feeder for your needs and answer any other questions you might have. Just reach out to us, and we'll be happy to assist you in setting up a great feeding station for those adorable squirrels.
References
- National Wildlife Federation. "Squirrels: Nature's Gardeners."
- The Humane Society. "Feeding Wild Squirrels."