Corn On The Cob For Squirrels To Eat
As a nature lover, you may have found yourself wondering what you can do to help the wildlife around you. If you live in an area where squirrels are plentiful, you may have even considered adding food to your yard to help them thrive. One food in particular that squirrels love to eat is corn on the cob. But is it safe for them to eat, and how can you provide it in a way that is both healthy and sustainable? In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about feeding corn on the cob to squirrels.
Why Squirrels Love Corn On The Cob
Squirrels are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal matter. One of their favorite plant-based foods is corn on the cob. This is likely because corn is high in carbohydrates, which provide energy, and also because it is a good source of protein and other nutrients.
In addition to being nutritious, corn on the cob is also fun for squirrels to eat. They enjoy gnawing on the kernels and can spend hours nibbling away at a single ear of corn. Providing corn on the cob for squirrels can help keep them entertained and active, which is important for their mental and physical well-being.
Is Corn On The Cob Safe For Squirrels To Eat?
While corn on the cob is a popular food for squirrels, it's important to ensure that it is safe for them to eat. One concern is that corn on the cob can be a choking hazard, especially if the kernels are large or the cob is too hard for the squirrel to gnaw on.
To minimize the risk of choking, it's important to choose ears of corn that are the right size for the squirrels in your area. If the squirrels in your yard are small, look for ears of corn with smaller kernels and softer cobs. If the squirrels are larger, you can provide ears of corn with larger kernels and harder cobs.
Another concern is that corn on the cob can attract other wildlife, such as raccoons and opossums. These animals may try to steal the corn and can cause problems in your yard. To prevent this, you can provide corn on the cob in a way that is less accessible to these animals. For example, you can hang the corn on a string or place it on a platform that is too high for the other animals to reach.
How To Feed Corn On The Cob To Squirrels
There are a few different ways that you can provide corn on the cob for squirrels. The most common method is to place whole ears of corn on a platform or feeder where the squirrels can easily reach them. You can also hang the ears of corn from a string or wire, which can be a fun way to watch the squirrels climb and play.
Another option is to place individual kernels of corn around your yard. This can be especially helpful if you have a lot of squirrels in your yard, as it ensures that each squirrel has access to food without having to compete for it.
When providing corn on the cob for squirrels, it's important to monitor the food to ensure that it doesn't attract unwanted animals or spoil. If you notice that the corn is starting to mold or attract other animals, remove it from your yard and dispose of it properly.
The Benefits Of Feeding Corn On The Cob To Squirrels
Feeding corn on the cob to squirrels can provide a number of benefits, both for the squirrels and for you. For the squirrels, it provides a source of nutritious food that can help them thrive. It can also help keep them entertained and active, which is important for their mental and physical well-being.
For you, providing food for squirrels can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with nature. It can also be a great way to attract other wildlife to your yard, such as birds and butterflies.
In Conclusion
Feeding corn on the cob to squirrels can be a fun and rewarding way to help the wildlife in your yard. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that the squirrels in your area have access to safe and nutritious food, while minimizing the risk of attracting unwanted animals. So go ahead and add some corn on the cob to your yard – your local squirrels will thank you!