I have spent years studying Squirrels around the world and have seen first-hand their behaviors and diet. As an expert on this fascinating species, I can confirm that yes, squirrels do eat corn! In fact, for many squirrel species it is a staple part of their diet that helps them fuel up for the winter months.

Squirrels often eat corn, depending on the variety and what is available in the environment. In Southern Ontario and other parts of Eastern North America, Squirrels are often found eating varieties of sweetcorn. They may also consume field corn or popcorn.

Do Squirrels Eat Corn?

The short answer to this question is yes! But there’s a lot more to know about squirrels and corn. Wild squirrels are omnivores that enjoy a variety of plant-based foods as well as some animal-based foods. Corn can be an important part of the squirrel diet but they don’t always consume it fully and understanding what parts of the cob they eat can help you feed them successfully.

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What is Corn and What Does it Offer Nutritionally?

Corn, also known as maize, is a type of grain belonging to the grass family Poaceae. Maize has been grown for thousands of years in Central America and Mexico, where it was first domesticated by ancient cultures such as the Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations. It is now one of the world’s most widely consumed grains.

Nutritional Makeup of Maize.

Maize is an excellent source of vitamins C, B6, thiamin, niacin and folate. It also contains minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and iron making it highly nutritious. The carbohydrate content consists almost entirely from starch which makes up between 60% – 75% depending on variety.

Squirrel digestive systems are well adapted for their diets which consist predominantly of plant material like seeds or nuts with occasional insect prey if available. As their stomachs need a combination of both proteins and carbohydrates to function properly feeding them corn offers several advantages.

It offers dietary fiber that helps promote digestion while maintaining healthy gut microbes
The starches provide energy needed for activity

The Digestive System of Squirrels & How They Profit from Eating Corn

Squirrels have an impressive digestive system that helps them obtain the nutrients they need from a variety of food sources, including corn. Corn is high in carbohydrates and calories, which energizes squirrels and helps them store energy for winter hibernation. Additionally, the dietary fiber found in corn encourages healthy gut bacteria to promote digestion and absorption of other essential vitamins and minerals. Ultimately, corn provides a great source of nutrition for squirrels!

Digestion in Squirrels.

Squirrels have evolved to obtain nutrients from many different food sources. Their digestive system is well-suited for their omnivore diet and corn is a major part of this diet. The kernels are rich in carbohydrates, fiber, fat, and protein that help squirrels survive and thrive in the wild. Corn cobs also provide many benefits depending on how long they’re stored; up to four months when fed as part of a squirrel’s regular diet.

Is Corn Safe for Squirrels?

Yes, corn is safe for squirrels to eat. Most squirrels enjoy a variety of plant-based foods, including corn cobs which can last up to four months with them in their diet. However, it is important to provide a balanced diet for your backyard friends – not only corn! Make sure to also give shelled nuts as part of their nutrition for dental health.

Health Benefits of Eating Maize.

Maize, more commonly known as corn, is a type of cereal grain belonging to the grass family Poaceae. It has been an important crop in human diets around the world for centuries and is a good source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. Corn contains antioxidants that can help protect against certain health conditions such as heart disease and cancer.

The high levels of dietary fiber found in maize are beneficial for digestion. This helps keep your digestive system functioning properly and reduces risks associated with constipation and hemorrhoids. Eating foods with lots of dietary fiber can also reduce cholesterol levels which can help prevent heart problems down the line.

What Parts Can Squirrels Eat From a Cob of Corn?

Kernels

Squirrels love to eat corn kernels off the cob since it is one of their favorite treats! The kernels are packed full of vitamins A and C which are essential for their health.
Maize offers squirrels plenty of energy thanks to its complex carbohydrates content which provides them with ongoing fuel throughout their day.

Husk

The husk of the corn cob is a nutrient-rich layer that can be fed to squirrels. It’s full of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that squirrels need for healthy digestion. Plus, it’s a great natural toothbrush! Give them husks to chew on instead of nuts or other snacks to keep their teeth clean and healthy.

Silk

Squirrels love corn cobs! They can eat both the kernels and the husk for a delicious snack. The cob itself will last up to four months in their diet, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy these treats. Squirrels also benefit nutritionally from consuming shelled nuts which supports dental health. Keep all interactions with squirrels fair, as this ensures everyone involved is being treated equally.

Cob

Squirrels can, and do, eat corn cobs! While not all parts of the cob are edible for them, they enjoy the kernels and will often gnaw off the husks to get at them. Squirrels also benefit from a variety of other plant-based foods ranging from nuts to fruits. Corn cobs can last up to four months in their diet.

Can Squirrels Eat The Leaves and Stalk?

Squirrels can eat the leaves and stalk of a corn plant, but they don’t get as much nutrition from them as they do from the kernels. While the leaves are edible, they are not nutritionally dense enough to provide beneficial sustenance for a squirrel. The same can be said for the stalks—they may offer some minimal benefits, but they won’t help to improve or maintain your pet’s health.

Both leaves and stalks lack essential vitamins and minerals that squirrels need in order to survive. Therefore, if you want your pet squirrel to remain healthy and prosperous, it is best to refrain from feeding them these parts of an ear of corn.

Can Baby Squirrels Eat Corn?

Yes, baby squirrels can eat corn with no problem. However, since their digestive systems are still developing, you must take extra precautions when feeding them their first cobs of corn. Young squirrels should only consume small portions of boiled or steamed corn kernels before anything else; introducing too many foods too quickly could cause stomach discomfort.

It is also important that you introduce other nutrient-rich fresh fruits or vegetables into your pet‘s diet gradually over time in order to ensure balanced nutrition. Too much reliance on one type of food could lead to nutritional deficiencies down the line.

Can squirrels eat rotten corn?

Squirrels can eat rotten corn, but it’s not recommended. Decaying corn isn’t as nutritious as fresh and can contain dangerous toxins that can make your pet squirrel sick. If you do choose to feed them rotting corn, always make sure it is away from other food sources so they don’t accidentally ingest something bad.

Is Corn a Healthy Treat for Squirrels?

Corn is known as an excellent source of energy and carbohydrates but should be given sparingly due to its high sugar content; it often fills up their stomachs but doesn’t provide much nutrition beyond that which makes other forms of sustenance necessary in order to meet essential vitamin and mineral requirements.

Can You Feed Cracked Corn or Deer Corn to Squirrels?

Yes, you can feed squirrels cracked corn and deer corn. While their regular diet should consist of mostly plant-based foods, these types of corn can give squirrels an occasional treat. Make sure to feed it in moderation, as too much could lead to overindulgence and weight gain.

What Can You Feed Squirrels Instead Of Corn?

A healthy alternative would be nut – based foods like walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pecans & macadamia nuts. Fruits & veggies such as apples, oranges, carrots & sweet potatoes also offer great nutritional value. Additionally young birds & insects provide good sources protein. While more expensive then kibble & other dry goods, live insects ( grubs ) provide valuable nutrients lacking elsewhere in typical store – bought fare. Finally grain products like oats & barley present beneficial complex carbs your pet won’t find among standard treats.

Seeds and Nuts.

Feeding squirrels a variety of seeds and nuts is a great way to provide them with the nutrition they need. Seeds are especially important in their diet due to their high content of essential fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals which aid in maintaining proper nutrition. Squirrels love munching on sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts. Nuts are also a good source of fat which helps keep them warm during the cold months. Some recipes include adding some oil or honey to roasted nuts for added sweetness.

It’s important not to overfeed when it comes to offering these treats as too much sugar can contribute to obesity in squirrels as well as other health problems like tooth decay. If you find that your squirrel has an insatiable appetite for sugary snacks try adding a few fresh vegetables into its diet such as carrots or celery.

Fruits and Vegetables.

Vegetables make up a large part of what makes up the natural diet of wild squirrels; grains (like corn), fruits (like apples or pears) and green leafy vegetables are all staples that can be found in nature. A balanced food plan including fresh fruits such as bananas, strawberries or oranges provides carbohydrates for energy along with vital nutrients like vitamin C. A mixture of raw vegetables should include carrots chopped fine enough that it can be eaten by small mammals like squirrels; squash is another favorite amongst them.

It is important not to forget one very essential component when feeding the friendly critters: water! A clean bowl filled with cool water from time-to-time will ensure they stay hydrated while enjoying all their tasty treats.

Conclusion

As you can now see, squirrels definitely do eat corn! Whether it be raw, cooked, dried, or on the cob – they enjoy it. Corn is a great way to supplement their normal diet of nuts and grains and helps provide them with a variety of nutrients that are essential for their well-being. Plus, it’s an easy snack for them to find in the wild and store away for later.

So next time you’re wondering if squirrels eat corn, don’t hesitate to answer yes! Not only will it benefit squirrels’ health and nutrition, but also bring a smile to your face as you watch these adorable critters munch away on their favorite treat.