It is not always a good idea to feed wild animals, but if you decide to do so, it is essential to do it correctly. To help you, we have compiled a few tips on how you can support squirrels in winter. IMAGE: Pixabay

Unlike other animals in Germany, like hedgehogs, squirrels do not hibernate; they merely go into winter dormancy. This means they slow their heart rate and circulation to conserve energy. Nevertheless, they still spend one to two hours each day searching for food.

In the fall, they bury as many supplies as possible for the winter and dig them up again months later. (Even as a child, I was fascinated by how they find them again, and I still am today.)

The question is: Do squirrels need to be fed at all? The answer: Basically, feeding squirrels is not necessary. These small rodents are not an endangered species in Germany and can usually find enough food in nature to get through the winter.

Food is harmless (if it’s the right kind)

Food can certainly help squirrels during dry years when food is scarce or in cities where food sources are limited. Feeding them can also be helpful in very cold conditions when the ground is frozen and they have difficulty accessing their food stores. And providing them with food does not harm them in any way. Unlike other species, squirrels do not become accustomed to being fed.

How to properly feed squirrels in the winter:

1. A suitable location: A bird feeder is particularly useful for feeding squirrels in the winter. You can hang it on your balcony or in a tree in your yard. You can also purchase special feeders designed specifically for squirrels. However, it is important to hang them high enough to prevent cats and dogs, who like to hunt these small rodents, from reaching them.

2. The right food: In addition to the feed mixes available from specialty retailers, squirrels particularly love nuts. According to BUND Naturschutz, it doesn’t matter if they are walnuts, hazelnuts, or ornamental nuts. However, to help young animals, you should provide nuts without shells, as they cannot open them yet. They also enjoy sunflower seeds, beechnuts, and chestnuts. Alternatively, you can put out freshly cut fruit, such as apples or bananas. However, do not give them almonds or peanuts: They contain substances that are toxic to squirrels!

3. Watering places: As with birds, watering spots may be more important than feeding spots. This is especially true in the summer. A shallow bowl is ideal for this purpose, provided that it is cleaned regularly and the water is replaced. Additionally, it is important to place the bowl in an elevated position.

Do you have any other tips for helping the cute little critters get through winter? If so, please write them in the comments!