Few backyard pleasures compare to watching a squirrel bound across the grass, grab a peanut, and race back up a tree with a flick of its tail. But the wrong food mix can mean half-eaten kernels scattered everywhere, picky eaters turning up their noses, or even nutritional gaps that leave your wild visitors less energetic. I have sorted through the options so you can put out a spread that actually gets devoured.
I’m Mo Mahin — the founder and writer behind Furric. I have spent countless hours studying ingredient lists, cross-referencing veterinary wildlife nutrition guidelines, and combing through real-world feedback from backyard feeders to understand what keeps squirrels healthy and coming back.
After observing local squirrel colonies and analyzing nutritional profiles, our pick for best food for squirrels stands above every competitor tested.
How To Choose The Best Food For Squirrels
Squirrels are opportunistic eaters, but that does not mean every bag of seeds and corn delivers what they need. A smart selection balances high-energy ingredients, natural variety, and sensible feeder hygiene. Focusing on a few key factors will help you avoid waste and support the health of every critter that visits your yard.
Ingredient Quality and Nutritional Balance
Look for whole nuts, sunflower seeds, and quality grains rather than filler based on cheap by-products. Peanuts in the shell provide protein and healthy fat, while sunflower seeds supply essential oils for a glossy coat. A mix that mirrors what squirrels would forage naturally gives them the best chance to thrive without relying on synthetic supplements.
Bag Size and Freshness Packaging
Larger bags often deliver better value, but only if the contents stay fresh. Oxygen scavenger packets and resealable bags help preserve nutrients and prevent mold growth, especially in humid climates. If you feed a small crew, a modest bag that empties quickly may serve you better than an economy size that goes stale.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Type | Best For | Key Feature | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CountryMax Backyard Seeds | Seed & Nut Mix | Year-round wildlife feeding | Protein-rich peanuts in shell | Amazon |
| Volkman Gourmet Mix | Gourmet Mix | Pet squirrels and picky eaters | Premium pumpkin seeds | Amazon |
| Audubon Park Critter Food | Critter Mix | Distracting from bird feeders | 15-lb bulk value bag | Amazon |
| Lyric Wildlife Critter Food | Wildlife Blend | Multi-species backyard visits | Oxygen-fresh packaging | Amazon |
| Wild Delight Crunch N’ Nut | Nut & Seed Mix | Daily supplemental feeding | Scientifically formulated nutrition | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. CountryMax Backyard Seeds Squirrel & Chipmunk Food Mix
This premium wildlife blend from CountryMax delivers exactly what active squirrels need — a hearty mix of sunflower seeds, whole corn, and protein-packed peanuts still in the shell. The resealable bag keeps everything fresh between feedings, and the ingredient list reads like a foraging dream rather than a filler-filled afterthought. Backyard visitors waste very little of this mix, which says plenty about how well it matches natural preferences.
Squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and even the occasional raccoon will gather around platform feeders or scattered patches when this mix goes out. The peanuts in shell provide mental enrichment as critters work to crack them open, while the sunflower seeds deliver essential fats for energy. Many regular feeders report that this blend holds up well across all four seasons, including harsh winter months when calories matter most.
For the feeder who wants a single bag that attracts a rotating cast of wildlife without sacrificing nutritional quality, this is the clear winner. The balance of ingredients reduces waste, and the resealable packaging makes storage simple. If you feed a high-traffic area, consider ordering two bags at a time — your visitors will empty this faster than you expect.
Why we love it
- High proportion of whole peanuts in shell for protein and enrichment
- Resealable bag maintains freshness between uses
- Attracts a wide variety of backyard wildlife beyond squirrels
Good to know
- Premium price point compared to basic corn-heavy mixes
- Some users wish for even more nut variety
2. Volkman Seed Small Animal Squirrel Gourmet Mix
Volkman has built a reputation for crafting thoughtful blends, and this gourmet mix for small animals earns that trust with every handful. It combines sunflower seeds, peanuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and safflower into a diverse mix that encourages squirrels to eat on the spot rather than bury everything for later. The soft shell composition means less wasted time cracking and more time actually fueling up.
What sets this blend apart is the inclusion of premium Dickenson pumpkin seeds, a nutrient-dense ingredient rarely found in standard squirrel foods. The variety keeps picky eaters engaged, and the smaller 4-pound bag size works well for households that feed a modest group of regulars. Many squirrel enthusiasts note that their local critters seemed noticeably more energetic after switching to this mix from cheaper alternatives.
If you care about ingredient sourcing and want a diet that closely mirrors what squirrels would select in the wild, this gourmet option delivers. It costs more per pound than bulk mixes, but the reduced waste and visible enthusiasm from your visitors make the investment worthwhile. Just buy two of the 4-pound bags rather than the larger size for the best value.
Why we love it
- Premium pumpkin seeds add nutritional density rarely found in other blends
- Soft shell ingredients encourage immediate eating rather than hoarding
- Diverse mix appeals to even the pickiest backyard squirrels
Good to know
- Higher cost per pound than standard squirrel feed
- 4-pound bag may be small for high-traffic feeding areas
3. Audubon Park Squirrel & Critter Food
Audubon Park understands that sometimes you just need a dependable bulk option that keeps everyone happy without breaking your budget. This 15-pound bag combines crunchy corn, sunflower seeds, and hearty peanuts into a mix that attracts squirrels, chipmunks, jays, and woodpeckers alike. It is specifically designed to pull critters away from bird feeders, giving your feathered friends a fair shot at their own food.
The value here is hard to beat — the large bag size means fewer refill trips, and the ingredient variety keeps a wide range of wildlife interested. Many feeders report that raccoons, opossums, and even foxes will stop by when this mix goes out, making it a solid choice if you enjoy watching a full cast of backyard characters. The corn content is noticeable but not overwhelming, and most squirrels dig right in without hesitation.
For the budget-conscious feeder who still wants quality ingredients and reliable results, this bag delivers consistent performance. It works best scattered on the ground or in platform feeders, and the 15-pound size is generous enough to support a busy feeding station for weeks. Just store it in a sealed container if you live in a humid area, as the bag itself is not resealable.
Why we love it
- Large 15-pound bag offers excellent value for regular feeding
- Effectively distracts squirrels from bird feeders
- Attracts a wide variety of backyard wildlife species
Good to know
- Bag is not resealable, so transfer to a container for freshness
- Corn content may be less appealing to some squirrels
4. Lyric Wildlife Critter Food
Lyric brings a hand-crafted approach to this wildlife blend, combining corn, black oil sunflower seeds, red milo, whole oats, peanuts, and green peas into a mix that feels genuinely thoughtful. The inclusion of green peas is a pleasant surprise — many backyard visitors find them irresistible, and they add a source of natural sweetness and fiber. The 10-pound bag includes an oxygen scavenger packet to lock in freshness from the first scoop to the last.
This blend pulls in more than just squirrels — deer, rabbits, turkeys, and a variety of birds including jays, cardinals, and chickadees will all make appearances. The all-natural composition means no artificial preservatives or questionable fillers, just whole ingredients that supplement wild diets effectively. Some regulars note that the corn content is noticeable, but most squirrels work around it while zeroing in on the peanuts and sunflower seeds first.
If you want a single feed that transforms your yard into a lively wildlife hub, this is an excellent choice. The fresh-packaging technology keeps the mix in good condition even if you do not go through it quickly, and the variety of ingredients means less time sorting out what gets eaten and what gets left behind. It is a well-rounded option for nature lovers who enjoy seeing multiple species dine together.
Why we love it
- Unique ingredient mix includes green peas for added nutrition
- Oxygen scavenger packet keeps food fresh longer
- Attracts an impressive range of backyard wildlife
Good to know
- Some wildlife may leave the corn uneaten
- Peanut content could be higher for squirrel-only feeding
5. Wild Delight Crunch N’ Nut Squirrel Food
Wild Delight positions this mix as a scientifically formulated option for maximum nutrition, and the ingredient list backs up that claim with whole peanuts and a 100% natural composition. The 8-pound bag is manageable for smaller feeding stations, and the chunk form makes it easy for squirrels to grab and go. It is designed to attract not just squirrels but also chipmunks, rabbits, and other backyard wildlife.
Customer feedback consistently highlights how enthusiastically squirrels respond to this blend — one long-time feeder with multiple species visiting daily reports that this mix outlasts every other brand they have tried in terms of pure popularity. The veterinary diet classification suggests a higher standard of quality control than typical wildlife feeds, and the absence of artificial additives is reassuring for those who want to feed responsibly.
If you are looking for an entry-level option that still prioritizes nutritional value, this bag offers a solid starting point. It may not have the ingredient diversity of premium blends, but the whole peanut content and natural formulation make it a dependable choice for daily supplemental feeding. Set up an auto-ship subscription and your local squirrels will learn to recognize the delivery schedule.
Why we love it
- Whole peanuts provide excellent protein content
- 100% natural composition with no artificial additives
- Backed by a veterinary diet formulation standard
Good to know
- 8-pound bag may require frequent refills for busy feeding areas
- Less ingredient variety compared to premium mixes
Safety & Care Tips
Proper Feeder Placement and Hygiene
Position feeders or scatter zones at least ten feet from trees or structures where predators could hide. Clean the area weekly by removing uneaten hulls and debris to prevent mold growth and bacterial buildup. During wet weather, offer smaller portions that will be consumed within a day to keep food fresh and safe for every visitor.
Seasonal Nutritional Adjustments
Increase protein-rich ingredients like peanuts during winter months when squirrels need extra calories to maintain body heat. In warmer seasons, scale back portion sizes and focus on lighter seeds to prevent overfeeding. Always provide a clean, shallow water source nearby — hydration is just as critical as food for backyard wildlife health.
FAQ
What ingredients should I look for in squirrel food?
Can I feed squirrels table scraps or human food?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most backyard feeders, the food for squirrels winner is the CountryMax Backyard Seeds Squirrel & Chipmunk Food Mix because it combines premium whole peanuts, sunflower seeds, and a resealable bag into a blend that attracts a wide range of wildlife with minimal waste. If you want a gourmet mix that picky eaters devour on the spot, grab the Volkman Seed Small Animal Squirrel Gourmet Mix. And for budget-friendly bulk feeding that keeps bird feeders safe from marauding squirrels, nothing beats the Audubon Park Squirrel & Critter Food.