Do Squirrels Eat Carrots? Find out the Truth Right Now

Yes, of course, they do! Squirrels love carrots and many other root vegetables. They are packed with vitamins and minerals that these cute little animals need to stay healthy. The more you know about squirrels, the more you understand how important your garden can be for them and their survival. Keep reading if you want more answers about: do squirrels eat carrots?

do squirrels eat carrots - squirrel snacking on carrots

Do Squirrels Eat Carrots?

Carrots are safe for squirrels, but some may prefer the taste of nuts over anything else. Carrots offer a great source of fiber, beta-carotene, potassium, and antioxidants that can help protect their overall health. For example, carrots help keep the teeth in great shape. You can enjoy the sound of squirrels crunching on carrots knowing they help keep teeth clean.

kitty city squirrels - squirrel education

Are Carrots Healthy for Squirrels?

In addition to being a great source of nutrition and keeping teeth clean, carrots also help move food through a squirrel’s digestive tract keeping their digestive system healthy.

Is it Safe for Squirrels to Eat Carrots?

Yes, it is safe for squirrels to eat carrots. Carrots are healthy food for squirrels and provide them with many essential nutrients.

Rather than offering a whole carrot, cut up the raw carrot into small pieces.

Please do not feed carrots to squirrels younger than 10 weeks old!

New-born squirrels and squirrels younger than ten weeks old should not be fed any hard food like carrots as it is hard for them to digest it completely. Find expert advice from Karen the Wildlife Rehabber on when to introduce solid foods to baby squirrels.

Do Squirrels Like Carrots?

There is no definitive answer to this question as every squirrel is different and therefore has different preferences. However, many squirrels do enjoy eating carrots, so it is safe to say that at least some squirrels like them!

Since carrots are good for squirrels, it is not surprising that they would be attracted to them. If you are trying to attract squirrels to your yard or garden, placing a few carrots outside may do the trick!

do squirrels eat carrots - squirrel eating from a bowl

What Do Squirrels Like to Eat Besides Carrots?

Squirrels are omnivores and will eat various food sources, including nuts, berries, fruits, vegetables, mealworms, crickets, moths, grubs, and caterpillars. While they are often associated with eating carrots, they will also eat other vegetables, such as celery, cucumbers, and lettuce.

do squirrels eat carrots - squirrel snacking on carrots

Should I Feed the Squirrels Carrots?

Feeding squirrels is a popular pastime in suburban areas and can be a great way to help these animals. Not only can you watch them frolic around your yard, but you’ll also encourage the spread of their population.

If you’re considering feeding squirrels, here are some positive benefits.

  • It is fun for the whole family and will make for great family time outside.
  • You’ll be able to teach kids and others about wildlife and nature.
  • You can talk about your experience to others, increasing awareness about the importance of protecting these animals.

Should I Not Feed the Squirrels Carrots?

If you’re considering feeding squirrels, here are some negative consequences.

  • Feeding them can become addictive for some people, and the squirrels can make begging a habit.
  • As you might have guessed, many states prohibit squirrel feeding due to possible disease transmission, home wiring damage, and garden disruption.

Either way, it’s clear whether you decide to feed them or not; these furry animals are an essential part of nature’s balance.

Squirrels Help Our Ecosystem

Squirrels are beneficial to our ecosystem in many ways. They help to disperse seeds, which aids in tree regeneration and growth.

Also, their burrowing and nesting habits help to aerate the soil and break up compacted earth, making it easier for water and nutrients to reach plant roots.

So, whether you like to feed them or not, it’s essential to understand that these zany animals play a vital role in nature and deserve respect.

Do Squirrels Eat Carrots from a Squirrel Feeder?

You bet they do! Have you ever considered offering the squirrels fruit and vegetables, nuts, grains, and seeds from a squirrel feeder? I found these feeders and many other hand-crafted items like birdhouses and a fantastic butterfly house at Back2NatureWood on Etsy. These products are high-quality and will last for years.

Can Squirrels Eat Carrots – Conclusion

As you can see, squirrels love carrots! Not only can squirrels eat carrots, they packed with nutrients that these animals need, but your garden can be an excellent food source. So, if you’re wondering whether or not to include carrots in your squirrel-friendly garden, the answer is a definite yes! Take a look at more information on what other foods squirrels like.

Nyka eating peanut butter! Courtesy of @nyka_by_the_sea

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7 Comments

  1. The information on what squirrels can eat and at what age is great information. I will refer to this going forward. Thank you! Off to find a carrot or two!

  2. Another great article! I love the squirrel eating peanut butter video too so adorable! Miss Bonnie loves eating chunky PB and sometimes she eats so fast it makes her gag. First time I saw her do that it scared me for a moment cause I thought she was choking but I guess it’s normal and it looks really funny when they stick out their tongue like that. Just like when they yawn

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