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If your backyard squirrels turn up their noses at the birdseed mix you put out, it’s time to switch to a feed specifically formulated for their high-energy, protein-craving metabolism. A bag full of cheap fillers leaves them rummaging for the good stuff, while a quality mix keeps them coming back daily and thriving through every season.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I compare ingredient lists, analyze nutritional profiles, and correlate verified buyer feedback to find which blends truly deliver the protein, fat, and enrichment squirrels need.
After sifting through hundreds of reviews and cross-referencing every ingredient label, I’ve assembled the definitive guide to the best feed for squirrels that balances whole nuts, quality grains, and a mix that won’t get tossed aside.
How To Choose The Best Feed For Squirrels
Many backyard feeders grab the cheapest bag at the store, but squirrels are picky eaters. A mix heavy on red milo or cracked corn will end up scattered on the ground. The goal is a high-protein, high-oil blend that mimics their natural diet of nuts and seeds.
Whole Peanuts and High-Oil Seeds
Peanuts in the shell are the gold standard. They provide essential protein and fat while also giving squirrels a satisfying challenge to crack open. Black oil sunflower seeds are the next best ingredient—they pack a high oil content that delivers dense, quick energy. Avoid mixes where corn or milo sits at the top of the ingredient list.
Corn Content and Waste Management
Some corn is acceptable as a filler and calorie source, but many squirrels will pick around it to get to the peanuts and seeds. Look for a blend where corn is a secondary ingredient, not the primary one. Mixes with whole kernel corn tend to be more accepted than cracked corn, which can also spoil faster in damp weather.
Bag Size and Freshness Features
An 8 to 10-pound bag is a good starting point for a handful of regular visitors. Larger bags (15 pounds) offer better value per pound but require storage away from moisture. Bags with oxygen scavenger packets or resealable closures keep the food fresh for longer, especially during humid months.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennington Ultra Double Nut | Premium | Walnuts, Pecans & Real Fruit | Bird Kote vitamin coating | Amazon |
| CountryMax Backyard Seeds | Premium | Protein-rich peanuts in shell | 8 lbs resealable bag | Amazon |
| Wild Delight Crunch N’ Nut | Mid-Range | 100% natural whole peanuts | 8 lbs chunk form | Amazon |
| Audubon Park Critter Food | Mid-Range | Distracting from bird feeders | 15 lbs heavy duty bag | Amazon |
| Lyric Wildlife Critter Food | Budget | 6-ingredient variety mix | 10 lbs oxygen-scavenged | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Pennington Ultra Double Nut, Nut & Fruit Blend 10lbs
The Pennington Ultra Double Nut stands apart because it includes actual walnuts and pecans alongside peanuts and real dried fruit, not just the standard peanut-corn combo. This variety provides a broader spectrum of fats, proteins, and natural sugars that squirrels crave. The inclusion of Bird Kote technology adds a micronutrient boost that supports overall health.
Owners consistently report that picky squirrels devour this blend faster than any other mix they’ve tried. The fruit pieces disappear first, followed by the tree nuts, leaving minimal waste. It works equally well in platform feeders and dedicated squirrel feeders, and it holds up to rainy weather without turning into a soggy mess.
On the downside, the premium ingredients come at a higher cost per pound than standard blends. Some buyers also note that the bag could benefit from a resealable closure, as the high-oil nuts can go stale if not transferred to an airtight container after opening.
What works
- Real walnuts and pecans provide unmatched protein variety.
- Vitamin-coated kernels support year-round health.
- Minimal filler waste—squirrels eat nearly everything.
What doesn’t
- Premium price per pound compared to basic mixes.
- Bag lacks a resealable zipper for long-term freshness.
2. CountryMax Backyard Seeds Squirrel & Chipmunk Food Mix – 8 lb
CountryMax focuses on the ingredients squirrels value most: peanuts in the shell, black oil sunflower seeds, and whole corn. The resealable bag is a practical feature that keeps the mix fresh between feedings, especially during humid months when mold can become an issue. This blend is formulated to fuel active critters through cold winters and nesting seasons.
Buyers consistently praise the high peanut-to-filler ratio. The peanuts in the shell provide both mental enrichment and a high-protein reward. The mix also attracts chipmunks, rabbits, and ground-feeding birds, making it a versatile option for a diverse backyard ecosystem.
A few customers note that the corn kernels are whole, which reduces waste compared to cracked corn but still results in some leftovers from especially selective eaters. The 8-pound bag is a moderate size that suits small to medium squirrel populations.
What works
- High concentration of whole peanuts in the shell.
- Resealable packaging preserves freshness and deters pests.
- Enrichment value from cracking open shells.
What doesn’t
- Some picky squirrels leave behind the whole corn kernels.
- Smaller 8-lb bag may need frequent restocking.
3. Wild Delight Crunch N’ Nut Squirrel Food, 8 Lb
Wild Delight’s Crunch N’ Nut is a straightforward, no-filler mix built around whole peanuts. The ingredient list is clean—just peanuts, corn, and sunflower seeds—making it a reliable daily staple. The chunk form means the pieces are large enough for squirrels to handle easily without creating excessive dust at the bottom of the bag.
Long-term users report that even the most selective squirrels return consistently for this feed. The whole peanuts provide a satisfying crunch and a high fat content that helps small mammals maintain energy reserves. It also attracts chipmunks and rabbits without overwhelming the area with birds.
Some buyers wish the bag contained a greater variety of nut types, as the mix relies heavily on peanuts alone. If your squirrels are accustomed to a blend with walnuts or pecans, they may be slower to transition. The bag is also not resealable, so transferring the food to a storage bin is recommended.
What works
- Whole peanuts deliver maximum protein and oil.
- Minimal filler—minimal waste on the ground.
- Consistent quality batch-to-batch.
What doesn’t
- Only one nut variety (peanuts) — lacks diversity.
- Bag does not reseal; needs air-tight storage.
4. Audubon Park Squirrel & Critter Food, 15-lb. Bag
The Audubon Park Critter Food is positioned as a tactical solution: feed the squirrels and chipmunks away from your bird feeders. The 15-pound bag is generous and the mix of corn, sunflower seeds, and peanuts is designed to be scattered directly on the ground or placed in a platform feeder at a distance from your bird stations.
Many users confirm that this strategy works well—once squirrels have their own dedicated food source, they leave the finch and chickadee feeders alone. The heavy-duty bag withstands handling and storage, and the ingredient quality is solid for the mid-range category. The corn kernels are whole, which reduces mess compared to cracked versions.
The primary complaint is that some squirrels and birds pick around the corn kernels. Buyers with very selective visitors may see a mound of untouched corn at the bottom of the feeder. Additionally, the bag does not include peanuts in the shell, which some squirrels prefer for enrichment.
What works
- Large 15-lb bag offers great value per feeding.
- Effectively distracts squirrels from bird feeders.
- Whole corn kernels reduce dust and spoilage.
What doesn’t
- High corn content — selective eaters leave it behind.
- No peanuts in shell for enrichment.
5. Lyric Wildlife Critter Food for Deer, Squirrels, Turkeys & Rabbits, 10 lb
Lyric Wildlife offers a diverse 6-ingredient blend that includes black oil sunflower seeds, whole oats, green peas, red milo, peanuts, and corn. The addition of green peas sets this mix apart—many squirrels find them highly palatable, and they add a distinct nutritional profile. The oxygen scavenger packet inside the bag is a thoughtful touch that extends shelf life.
Buyers appreciate the variety, noting that the mix attracts not only squirrels but also rabbits, chipmunks, and a wide range of birds. The blend works well for ground feeding, where animals can naturally sort through the ingredients. The bag is reasonably durable for its price point.
A recurring issue is that the peanut content is lower than many squirrel-specific blends. Several reviewers mention that the animals seem to pick out the peanuts first, leaving the milo and corn behind. If your primary goal is feeding squirrels rather than birds, you may need to supplement with extra peanuts.
What works
- Six-ingredient diversity attracts multiple wildlife species.
- Green peas provide a unique, high-value food source.
- Oxygen scavenger keeps the mix fresh longer.
What doesn’t
- Lower peanut content than dedicated squirrel feeds.
- Milo and corn left behind by picky eaters.
Hardware & Specs Guide
Ingredient Order on the Label
The first three ingredients make up the bulk of the bag. A feed that lists “Whole Peanuts” or “Black Oil Sunflower Seeds” in the top two slots will have minimal waste. If “Cracked Corn” or “Red Milo” appears first, expect selective eating.
Bag Size and Storage Strategy
An 8–10 lb bag is ideal for a small crew of daily visitors. A 15 lb bag can last several weeks but must be stored in a cool, dry place. Look for resealable bags or plan to transfer the feed into a metal or thick plastic bin to keep out moisture and rodents.
FAQ
Should I feed squirrels whole peanuts or peanut pieces?
How often should I replenish a squirrel feeder?
Can I mix bird seed with squirrel feed?
What should I avoid in a squirrel feed?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most gardeners, the best feed for squirrels winner is the Pennington Ultra Double Nut because it offers the richest variety of tree nuts, fruit, and vitamin-coated kernels that even the pickiest squirrels devour. If you want a resealable, enrichment-focused blend with peanuts in the shell, grab the CountryMax Backyard Seeds. And for a budget-friendly bulk option that still delivers solid quality, the Wild Delight Crunch N’ Nut keeps your crew fed without breaking the bank.