If you’re debating on whether or not to give squirrels carrots from your garden, read this blog post.
We’ll answer questions such as “Can squirrels eat carrots?” and “What are the nutritional benefits of carrots for squirrels?”.
Not only that, but we’ll also provide tips on how to feed them.
The Short Answer …
Yes, squirrels can eat carrots. Carrots are nutritious for squirrels because they are rich in beta-carotene, Vitamin A, biotin, fiber, and potassium. Squirrels eat all types of carrots including red, orange, yellow, and white carrots. All squirrel species including tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and flying squirrels can eat carrots but it is not safe to feed baby carrots at less than 6 weeks old.
Can Squirrels Eat Carrots?
Yes, squirrels can eat carrots. Carrots are a nutritious food for squirrels, helping to develop a good vision with beta-carotene and providing essential vitamins and minerals like fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
Related: Can Squirrels Eat Tomatoes? How & How Many?
What Types Of Carrots Can Squirrels Eat?
Carrots are a type of plant from the Apiaceae family, which also commonly contains celery and parsnip.
All colors of carrots – red, orange, purple, yellow, and white – can be eaten by squirrels.
So if you want to mix up what you’re feeding your pet squirrel, try giving them some carrots.
Will Squirrels Dig Up Carrots In Your Backyard?
Squirrels are known to dig up and eat vegetables in many gardens.
While they primarily go after easier food sources such as nuts and berries, they will also eat root vegetables like carrots if given the chance.
If you find that your carrot crop is being dug up by squirrels, there are a few things you can do to deter them.
One is to cover the area with chicken wire or another type of fencing. This will keep the squirrels from being able to access the carrots.
Another option is to spray the area with a commercially available repellent. These repellents usually contain strong smells or tastes that squirrels find unpleasant, and they will typically stay away from areas that have been treated with them.
Can Squirrels Drink Carrot Juice?
Many people might not know this, but squirrels are able to drink carrot juice.
This is possible because they can digest a vast array of fruits and vegetables; not just nuts like many people think.
So next time when you see a squirrel shrugged over a cup of carrot juice, don’t be so surprised.
However, don’t give squirrels too much carrot juice as part of their diet as it is high in sugar content.
If you’re looking to give your backyard squirrels a tasty treat, there are plenty of other options out there.
Are Carrots Bad For Squirrels?
Many people use carrots as bait to lure squirrels into traps, however, some individuals think that they are bad for these animals.
In fact, if given in moderation, carrots can be a healthy option for squirrels.
Although carrots contain more sugar than other vegetables, they have various nutrients that are necessary for squirrel diets.
So, it is essential to provide them with a variegated diet plan which includes other fruits and veggies.
What Are The Nutritional Benefits Of Carrots To Squirrels?
Carrots contain beta-carotene, Vitamin A, biotin, fiber, and potassium – all of which are integral for squirrel health.
Beta carotene helps with good vision; meanwhile, vitamin A helps with skin and mucous membranes.
Biotin aids metabolism while fiber regulates digestion; both processes rely on potassium to maintain fluid levels in the body.
Carrots are not only healthy food for squirrels but also act as a source of hydration.
Being that they are 88% water, carrots help squirrels to stay hydrated for long periods of time without other accessible sources of water.
Additionally, the high water content in carrots makes them refreshing on hot days.
Consequently, carrots are essential for squirrel survival in the wild.
How Do You Feed Carrots To Squirrels?
There are several ways you can give a squirrel a carrot. Before you begin, make sure to wash the carrot.
The first option is to place it on a flat surface and wait for the squirrels to come and take it.
Another way is putting it on a string and dangling it in front of the squirrels until they notice.
Additionally, you could hide the carrot in trees or bushes if you’re feeling more playful; waiting around until the squirrels find it themselves.
The final way is simply hand-feeding, although this might not be as well received.
Nonetheless, feeding carrots to squirrels is possible through many methods.
Should You Feed Carrots To Baby Squirrels?
If you are wondering whether you can feed carrots to baby squirrels? The answer is “it depends”.
If the baby squirrel is less than six weeks old, it may choke on the carrot.
If you are rehabilitating a baby squirrel, you should not feed it carrots as they can interfere with the animal’s natural diet.
However, if you have an orphaned baby squirrel that you are raising yourself, feeding it carrots is generally safe but chop it into small pieces first.
Conclusion
Yes, squirrels can eat carrots. In fact, they are a very nutritious food source for these little creatures. Carrots provide them with essential vitamins and minerals that help keep them healthy and active.
However, it is important to only feed carrots to squirrels in moderation as too much sugar can be harmful to their health.
Baby squirrels can benefit from eating carrots as well, but should be given smaller pieces to avoid choking hazards.
FAQ
Can Grey Squirrels Eat Carrots?
Yes, grey squirrels can eat carrots. Carrots are healthy food for grey squirrels and provide them with important nutrients like beta-carotene and vitamin A.
Can Red Squirrels Eat Carrots?
Yes, red squirrels can eat carrots. Although red squirrels are tree squirrels, they also forage for food on the ground and dig out carrots to eat.
Can Ground Squirrels Eat Carrots?
Yes, ground squirrels can eat carrots. Ground squirrels are good at digging carrots and they can consume all parts of carrots including roots, stems, and leaves.
Can Flying Squirrels Eat Carrots?
Yes, flying squirrels can eat carrots. Flying squirrels may have a little more difficulty finding carrots but they are able to eat carrots if available.
Can Squirrels Eat Baby Carrots?
Yes, baby carrots may be easier for squirrels to eat, but they can also eat regular-sized carrots.
