Squirrels do like celery, and it can actually be a healthy snack for them in moderation.
Celery is crunchy, low in calories, and packed with water, which makes it a refreshing treat for squirrels, especially during hot months.
If you’ve ever wondered “do squirrels like celery?” the short answer is yes, most squirrels will happily nibble on it if given the chance.
It’s not a food they’d naturally seek out in the wild, but it’s safe, non-toxic, and easy to offer.
In this post, we’ll explore why squirrels like celery, how to feed it to them safely, and whether it should be a regular part of their diet.
Let’s dig in.
Why Squirrels Like Celery
Squirrels like celery for several reasons, and understanding those reasons helps you decide how to offer it.
Here’s why this crunchy veggie makes the list of squirrel-friendly foods.
1. It’s Crunchy and Satisfying
Squirrels love to gnaw, and that’s a big part of why squirrels like celery.
Their teeth grow continuously, so they need to wear them down by chewing on hard, fibrous foods.
Celery stalks provide that perfect crunch, giving squirrels the gnawing satisfaction they crave.
A squirrel that likes celery will often hold the stalk with both paws and nibble away, just like it would with a twig or nut shell.
2. High Water Content
Celery is about 95% water, which makes it an excellent hydrating snack for squirrels.
Squirrels don’t always have easy access to fresh water, especially in urban or suburban areas.
So when they eat celery, they’re getting both nutrition and hydration in one bite.
That’s one of the reasons squirrels like celery so much, particularly in summer when water sources dry up.
3. Mild, Natural Taste
Celery has a mild, slightly earthy flavor that squirrels don’t find offensive.
Unlike strong-tasting vegetables, celery doesn’t overwhelm their sensitive palate.
Squirrels that like celery tend to eat it raw and plain, no seasoning needed.
This mild taste makes it a safe “starter” veggie if you’re trying to introduce new foods to a squirrel.
4. It’s Safe and Non-Toxic
Celery is non-toxic to squirrels, so you don’t have to worry about poisoning them.
That said, it should only be given in moderation because it’s not a complete food.
Squirrels like celery, but they also need nuts, seeds, fruits, and other veggies for balanced nutrition.
So treat celery as a supplement, not a meal replacement.
How to Feed Celery to Squirrels Safely
If you want to feed celery to squirrels, there are a few simple rules to follow.
These tips ensure the squirrels like celery without any risk to their health.
1. Wash It Thoroughly
Always rinse celery under clean water before giving it to squirrels.
Pesticides, dirt, and bacteria can cling to the stalks, and squirrels are sensitive to chemicals.
A quick scrub with a vegetable brush is even better.
2. Cut It into Manageable Pieces
Squirrels like celery more when it’s cut into small, easy-to-hold chunks.
Long stalks can be awkward for them to carry, and they might just drag it away and abandon it.
Aim for pieces about 1 to 2 inches long.
3. Serve It Raw and Plain
Never add salt, dressing, or any seasoning to celery for squirrels.
Squirrels like celery plain, and added ingredients can be toxic to them.
Raw, fresh, and unseasoned is always the way to go.
4. Offer It in Moderation
Even though squirrels like celery, it shouldn’t be an everyday food.
Too much celery can cause digestive upset because of its high fiber and water content.
Offer a small piece a few times a week as a treat, not as a staple.
5. Remove Leftovers
If the squirrel doesn’t eat all the celery within a few hours, take it away.
Wet, warm celery can grow mold or bacteria quickly, which is harmful.
Fresh is best, so only put out what you think will be eaten.
Do Squirrels Like Celery More Than Other Veggies?
That depends on the squirrel, but celery is usually a hit.
Squirrels like celery about as much as they like carrots, cucumber, and zucchini.
Some squirrels prefer sweeter veggies like corn or peas, while others enjoy the crunch of celery more.
The best way to find out is to offer a small piece and watch.
If your backyard squirrel likes celery, you’ll know within seconds.
If not, it might just bury it for later or ignore it entirely.
So, Do Squirrels Like Celery?
Squirrels do like celery, and it’s a safe, hydrating, crunchy treat they’ll often enjoy.
Just remember to serve it raw, plain, and in moderation.
Squirrels like celery because it satisfies their urge to chew and gives them a little hydration boost.
Offer it as an occasional snack alongside their regular diet of nuts, seeds, and fruits.
So next time you’re chopping celery, save a small piece for your neighborhood squirrel.
It’s a simple way to make their day a little crunchier.