Can Squirrels Eat Walnuts And Almonds

Squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds, and these nuts can actually be a healthy part of their diet when given in the right amounts.
 
Walnuts and almonds are non-toxic to squirrels and provide fats, proteins, and minerals that support their energy needs.
 
That said, the key word here is “moderation,” because too many nuts of any kind can upset their balance.
 
In this post, we’ll cover why squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds, how to feed these nuts safely, and the mistakes to avoid.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Why Squirrels Can Eat Walnuts and Almonds

Squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds, and here’s why these nuts work so well for them.
 

1. Squirrels Are Natural Nut Foragers

The biggest reason squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds is that these nuts are literally part of their natural foraging menu.
 
In the wild, squirrels spend much of their time hunting for nuts, seeds, and acorns.
 
Walnuts and almonds fit right into that pattern because they’re calorie-dense and easy to store.
 
That’s why you’ll often spot squirrels burying almonds in your garden or tucking walnuts into tree hollows.
 

2. Walnuts Deliver Omega-3 Fats

Walnuts are one of the few nuts loaded with plant-based omega-3 fatty acids.
 
These healthy fats support a squirrel’s brain function, joint health, and shiny coat.
 
So when you ask yourself “can squirrels eat walnuts,” the answer is a solid yes, partly because of that rich fat profile.
 
Just remember that fat means calories.
 
A squirrel’s daily energy needs are small, so one or two walnut halves a day is plenty.
 

3. Almonds Provide Protein and Minerals

Almonds bring protein, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E to the table.
 
These nutrients help squirrels maintain strong bones and healthy muscles, especially during colder months.
 
If your squirrels can eat almonds alongside a balanced diet of seeds and fresh food, they get a nice nutritional boost.
 
The catch, as you probably guessed, is portion size.
 

4. These Nuts Are Non-Toxic to Squirrels

Unlike some foods that can harm wildlife, walnuts and almonds don’t contain toxins that hurt squirrels.
 
That means feeding squirrels walnuts and almonds is safe as long as the nuts are plain and fresh.
 
The real danger comes from how the nuts are prepared, not the nuts themselves.
 

How to Feed Squirrels Walnuts and Almonds Safely

Knowing that squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds is only half the story.
 
How you serve them matters just as much, so keep these tips in mind.
 

1. Always Go Raw and Unsalted

Offer raw, unsalted walnuts and almonds with no seasoning.
 
Salt is harmful to small animals, and roasted nuts often carry oils and additives their bodies aren’t built for.
 
If you want to give squirrels almonds, plain raw ones are the gold standard.
 

2. Skip the Shells If They’re Salted

In-shell walnuts are fine and even fun for squirrels to crack open.
 
But avoid any shelled or in-shell nuts that have been salted or flavored.
 
Plain shells are safe, seasoned ones are not.
 

3. Keep Portions Small

A few nuts a day is more than enough for a squirrel.
 
Overfeeding nuts can lead to weight gain and nutritional imbalances because squirrels may fill up on nuts and skip other important foods.
 
Treat walnuts and almonds as a snack, not a meal.
 

4. Watch for Mold and Stale Nuts

Never feed squirrels moldy or rancid nuts.
 
Moldy walnuts can carry harmful aflatoxins, and stale nuts simply aren’t good for them.
 
Freshness matters every time you offer walnuts or almonds.
 

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Walnuts and Almonds

Even though squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds, a few common slip-ups can turn a healthy treat into a problem.
 

1. Feeding Flavored or Roasted Nuts

Honey-roasted, smoked, or salted nuts are a no-go for squirrels.
 
The extra sugar, salt, and oils can upset their digestion and cause long-term health issues.
 

2. Offering Too Many Nuts at Once

A pile of almonds might look generous, but it’s overkill.
 
Squirrels are hoarders, so they’ll bury the extras, and those hidden nuts can rot, attract pests, or sprout in your garden.
 

3. Forgetting Other Food Sources

Nuts alone don’t make a complete diet, even though squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds without trouble.
 
Squirrels still need seeds, fruits, vegetables, and natural forage to stay healthy.
 

4. Feeding Nuts to Sick or Orphaned Squirrels

If you’re caring for a sick or orphaned squirrel, check with a wildlife rehabilitator before feeding walnuts or almonds.
 
Young squirrels have different nutritional needs, and nuts can be too rich for them.
 

So, Can Squirrels Eat Walnuts and Almonds?

Squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds, and these nuts make a nutritious, natural treat when served raw, plain, and in small amounts.
 
Walnuts bring omega-3 fats, almonds add protein and minerals, and both are non-toxic to squirrels.
 
Just skip the salt, sugar, and roasting, keep portions modest, and always offer fresh nuts.
 
Hope this post has helped you understand why squirrels can eat walnuts and almonds and how to serve them safely.