The 13 Types of Nuts That Squirrels Love to Eat

Squirrels are fascinating creatures known for their agile antics and, of course, their love for nuts. These bushy-tailed foragers rely on nuts as a crucial part of their diet, providing them with essential nutrients and energy for survival. In this article, we will delve into the 13 types of nuts that squirrels love to eat, exploring the reasons behind their preferences, the nuts’ nutritional values, and the role they play in sustaining the health and vitality of our furry, tree-dwelling neighbors.

1. Acorns

Acorns hold a special place in the hearts of squirrels, often regarded as one of their all-time favorite nuts. These small, oval-shaped nuts, primarily found on oak trees, provide a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor that squirrels find irresistible. Rich in carbohydrates, acorns offer a much-needed energy boost to squirrels, especially as they prepare for the harsh winter months. What makes acorns particularly special is the way squirrels diligently collect and store them, burying the nuts in the ground to create hidden caches. This remarkable behavior showcases squirrels’ strategic thinking and exceptional memory skills. In essence, acorns are a symbol of preparation for squirrels, enabling them to ensure a steady food supply during times of scarcity. As these bushy-tailed creatures rely on these nuts to fuel their daily activities and sustain themselves throughout the year, acorns become not just a favorite nut but a crucial component of their survival strategy.

2. Walnuts

Walnuts are another treasured favorite among squirrels, celebrated for their rich, buttery taste and their nutritional prowess. These nuts are exceptionally sought after for their high protein content, healthy fats, and the antioxidant benefits they offer. The unique appeal of walnuts lies not only in their nutritional value but also in the versatility they bring to a squirrel’s diet. With their distinct flavor and robust texture, walnuts add a delightful variety to squirrels’ culinary preferences. What makes them particularly interesting is how squirrels manage to crack open their tough shells to access the nutritious meat inside. This knack for shelling walnuts reflects the dexterity of these remarkable foragers. Much like acorns, walnuts are a coveted staple in squirrels’ pantries, hoarded during the fall and meticulously stored away to ensure they have a reliable food source to fuel their high-energy activities and maintain their overall well-being.

3. Pecans

Pecans are another treasure in the squirrel’s pantry, renowned for their delectable taste and rich nutritional profile. These nuts provide a sweet and nutty flavor that squirrels find utterly irresistible, making them a sought-after delicacy. What sets pecans apart is their ability to offer a harmonious blend of nutrients: protein and healthy fats. Squirrels, with their sharp foraging instincts, recognize the value of these fats and proteins, which not only fuel their busy daily routines but also support their muscle health and overall vitality. The sweet taste of pecans brings a delightful contrast to their diet, making them a beloved treat during the fall. Just as with acorns and walnuts, squirrels wisely collect pecans and stow them away in their hidden caches, ensuring a dependable source of nourishment in the coming winter. In essence, pecans are more than just a favorite nut; they are a vital component in a squirrel’s diet, enriching their lives with flavor and nourishment.

4. Hickory Nuts

Hickory nuts are a sought-after delicacy for squirrels. These nuts boast a rich and hearty flavor and are packed with protein and fats. Squirrels are particularly skilled at cracking the tough shells of hickory nuts to access the nutritious meat inside. They hoard hickory nuts during the fall season, ensuring they have a reliable food source throughout the winter.

5. Pine Nuts

Pine nuts are a favorite among squirrels for their soft texture and delightful taste. These nuts are rich in healthy fats and protein, making them an ideal choice for a squirrel’s diet. Squirrels are adept at extracting pine nuts from pinecones, collecting and feasting on them during the autumn months. Pine nuts are a valuable source of energy for squirrels during their busy nut-gathering season.

6. Hazelnuts

Next, hazelnuts, with their sweet and slightly earthy flavor, are a cherished treat for squirrels. These nuts are nutrient-dense, containing healthy fats, protein, and dietary fiber. Squirrels gather hazelnuts in the late summer and fall, often hiding them in the ground to ensure they have a reserve of food throughout the year.

7. Almonds

Squirrels have an affinity for almonds, which offer a delightful crunch and mild, nutty flavor. Almonds are a valuable source of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Squirrels forage for almonds during their growing season, and they bury them in caches to consume during times of scarcity.

8. Brazil Nuts

Next, Brazil nuts are a prized source of nutrition for squirrels due to their rich and creamy texture. These nuts are high in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like selenium. Squirrels gather Brazil nuts during their harvest season, storing them in their hidden stashes for consumption throughout the year.

9. Cashews

Cashews are a delectable choice for squirrels, known for their mild and creamy taste. These nuts provide squirrels with a healthy dose of fats, protein, and important nutrients. Squirrels collect and savor cashews during their peak season, ensuring a supply of nourishing food in the months ahead.

10. Macadamia Nuts

Following, Macadamia nuts, with their rich and buttery flavor, are a delightful snack for squirrels. These nuts are high in healthy fats and protein, offering an energy boost for these agile creatures. Squirrels gather and bury macadamia nuts, relying on their keen memory to retrieve their precious stash in times of need.

11. Chestnuts

Chestnuts are a beloved starchy nut that provides squirrels with a significant energy boost. These nuts are rich in carbohydrates, making them a valuable source of sustenance, particularly during the colder months. Squirrels forage for chestnuts during the autumn season, and they often bury them in caches to ensure a steady food supply. The high carbohydrate content in chestnuts allows squirrels to maintain their energy levels, making them a valuable addition to their diet.

12. Hazel Pine Nuts

Hazel pine nuts offer a delightful variation of flavor and nutrition. These nuts are high in both fats and protein, making them a sought-after treat for squirrels. With their unique combination of nutrients, hazel pine nuts provide essential energy and sustenance. Squirrels are skilled at extracting these tiny, nutrient-rich seeds from pinecones and pine nuts, which are often collected in abundance during their peak season. Their high-fat content ensures that squirrels have access to the energy they need to thrive in their natural environment.

13. Butternuts

Following, butternuts, known for their rich and mild flavor, are an attractive choice for squirrels. These nuts are packed with healthy fats, making them an ideal source of energy. Additionally, butternuts are rich in protein, which supports muscle health and overall vitality in squirrels. These nuts are frequently collected by squirrels and stashed away for future consumption, ensuring that they have access to a reliable and nutrient-dense food source.

Conclusion

Squirrels are remarkable creatures that have evolved to be skilled foragers, relying on a diverse range of nuts to sustain their energy and vitality throughout the year. These 13 types of nuts offer an array of flavors and essential nutrients that not only cater to a squirrel’s taste but also ensure their survival in the ever-changing seasons. As we watch these furry foragers darting about in our backyards and parks, we can appreciate the crucial role nuts play in their lives, providing them with the sustenance needed to thrive in the wild.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Valentyn Volkov/Shutterstock.com