03/29/2024
Here's why you should NEVER
feed peanuts to squirrels or even birds! I understand your confusion, cause most wildlife prepackaged foods contain peanuts both with and without shells. So make sure you buy bird foods without peanuts!
Reason 1:
The shell of the peanut
can contain an undetectable fungus.
This fungus, or mold has been linked
to permanent brain damage,
such as epilepsy and seizures, as well as heart,
liver and lung failures.Reason 2:
The Peanuts are a legume, not an actual nut. When raw they contain a trypsin inhibitor, a substance that inhibits or prevents protein
from being absorbed into the body. This can lead to permanent liver and kidney failure.
Even if the peanut is roasted a
300 degrees Fahrenheit for the required 30 minutes,
there's still a chance of the fungus and trypsin to survive.Reason 3:
Peanuts have close to zero
nutritional values, whatsoever,
so it's basically like eating potato chips.Conclusion:
A general rule when feeding wildlife, is to never give them something that isn't naturally grown in your area. Squirrels won't eat peanuts on their own, unless there's absolutely no other options available. A simple fact is,
it's better to be safe and not give them peanuts, than sorry for shortening their lifespan with sicknesses and pain.
Say no to prepackaged peanuts...instead try
Candy Rands Bates Acorns, whole roasted pumpkin seeds, and almonds are the healthiest, followed by hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, English walnuts, pecans, and pistachios, in that order. Avoid: Cashews, sunflower seeds, dried corn, pine nuts (will cause severe calcium loss).
