Should I feed Squirrels? 

There is an on-going debate over whether we should feed squirrels. Troy squirrel removal near me will have experts on this topic. It’s not a question of whether individuals like or dislike squirrels, but whether feeding the bushy-tailed fur balls is safe for them, as well as nature in general.

Lots of people, including wildlife experts, do not think it’s a terrific idea, for numerous factors. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) says that human food just isn’t good for wild animals, and they can live fine on their own. “Wild animals have specialized diets, and they can become malnourished or die if fed the wrong foods. Also, animals cannot distinguish food from wrappers or foil and can get sick eating these items,” the USDA site states.

Group No Feed

To make matters worse, when well-intentioned human beings start providing squirrels food, they become dependent on those handouts. And if the buffet closes, they will not have the ability to become self-sufficient again.

If generous human beings do manage to keep the food supply constant, the pleased, lazy squirrels go out and inform their squirrel pals that they’ve discovered a food paradise. An area overpopulated with squirrels can imply a boost in diseases (like Lyme disease) that can be transmitted to pets, people, and other rodents (like more squirrels).

Still, befriending squirrels can be troublesome since they can lose their innate fear of people and end up being aggressive. As adorable as they may look, squirrels have sharp teeth and nails that are not cuddle-friendly.

Ask most electricians and they’ll tell you squirrels and other little rodents like them are accountable for a lot of damage to wires and insulation in attics. They suggest that is all directly associated with feeding squirrels.

Group Feed

Not everybody agrees with the above, and there are a lot of individuals who delight in seeing squirrels go about their daily squirrel business. Many individuals like to feed squirrels merely because it brings animals to their property, and feeding them also offers the rodents another source of food throughout the extreme winter season.

The Humane Society of the United States takes a moderate position on the dispute. Some individuals will let squirrels take what they desire from bird feeders and that’s fine. The very best compromise, the Humane Society states, is to offer a little for the squirrels and more for the birds.

If you’re still undecided on your squirrel feeding position, the regional, federal, or state government may choose for you, especially in public parks where feeding squirrels are typically prohibited.

Factors to Consider When Feeding Squirrels

Some individuals discover enjoyment in feeding squirrels but there are some factors to consider:

• If squirrels are dependent on handouts, it can prevent them from foraging on healthy food sources. This can lead to health problems if they’re not getting the appropriate nutrients.
• Squirrels can lose their natural fear of people when they begin to associate them with food. While you like squirrels, others in your neighborhood might not and could respond differently to a bold or approaching squirrel.
• Feeding can likewise cause an unnatural number of squirrels to gather in an area, larger than what the surrounding natural resources can support. This can lead to an increase in the spread of diseases.
• It can likewise spell issues with your neighbors if squirrels start digging up their flowerbeds, chewing on their windowsills, or nesting in their attic.

Nevertheless, just because you shouldn’t feed squirrels does not mean there isn’t anything you can do for your backyard visitors.

The Natural Way

You can plant native plants. Not only will plants supply shelter for squirrels, but it will also provide a food source! And you will not get an unnatural number– just what the plants can support.

Consider planting shrubs such as wild cherry, red osier dogwood, and hawthorn. Trees essential to a squirrels’ diet include oak, hickory, beech, pine, spruce, and maple. These plants will offer a source of nuts, buds, and fruits, but some will also serve as nesting sites.

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