Blueberries are a popular fruit that both birds and squirrels enjoy eating. Blueberries contain many beneficial nutrients and antioxidants that make them a healthy treat for wildlife. In this article, we’ll explore whether birds and squirrels can safely eat blueberries and the benefits and risks of feeding blueberries to backyard wildlife.
Can birds eat blueberries?
Yes, birds can safely eat blueberries. Many species of birds are attracted to the sweet, juicy taste of blueberries. When blueberries ripen in late spring through summer, birds frequently flock to bushes to eat the berries.
Blueberries contain antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber and phytochemicals that provide health benefits for birds. The fruits are over 80% water, making them a thirst-quenching snack on hot days. Blueberries are low in fat and calories, so they won’t ruin a bird’s diet.
Some of the most common garden birds that enjoy blueberries include:
- Robins
- Cardinals
- Blue jays
- Waxwings
- Thrushes
- Finches
- Woodpeckers
- Orioles
- Tanagers
Larger birds like robins can swallow blueberries whole. Smaller species like finches may peck the flesh off in bits or crush the berries against a branch to open them. Birds digest the seeds and pulp.
Ripe, dark colored berries are the sweetest and hold the most antioxidants and nutrients. Avoid feeding birds mushy, fermented berries that may cause illness.
Benefits of blueberries for birds
Here are some of the top benefits wild birds receive from eating blueberries:
- Antioxidants: Blueberries contain antioxidant compounds like flavonoids, anthocyanins and phenols that neutralize damaging free radicals in birds’ bodies.
- Vitamin C: Blueberries provide vitamin C that supports a healthy immune system in birds.
- Fiber: The fiber in blueberries promotes digestion and gut health in birds.
- Carbohydrates: The natural sugars in berries provide birds with instant energy.
- Phytochemicals: Plant-based compounds in blueberries have anti-inflammatory effects in birds.
- Water: Blueberries are highly hydrating for thirsty birds on hot summer days.
Risks of feeding blueberries to birds
There are minimal risks associated with birds consuming fresh blueberries. However, here are a few potential downsides:
- Moldy or fermented berries could cause illness.
- Excessive sugar and calories could lead to obesity (rare).
- Constant handouts discourage natural foraging.
To minimize risks, only offer high-quality, fresh blueberries occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Discard any spoiled berries.
Can squirrels eat blueberries?
Yes, squirrels can safely enjoy eating blueberries. Berries are a natural part of the squirrel diet. Blueberries provide nutrients and hydration squirrels need.
Given the chance, squirrels will happily devour ripe, juicy blueberries right off the bush. They use their nimble paws to pick berries and hold them in their mouth pouch. Squirrels gnaw off the flesh and often discard uneaten seeds and pulp.
Benefits of blueberries for squirrels
Here are some of the key vitamins, minerals and compounds squirrels gain by eating blueberries:
- Vitamin C: Blueberries provide immune-supporting vitamin C. Squirrels cannot produce their own vitamin C.
- Fiber: Blueberry fiber helps regulate digestion in squirrels.
- Phytochemicals: Compounds in blueberries have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Water: Blueberries help hydrated squirrels, especially during summer.
- Antioxidants: Squirrels benefit from the antioxidants blueberries contain.
- Carbohydrates: Blueberries offer squirrels an immediate source of natural energy.
Risks of feeding blueberries to squirrels
While very rare, there are a couple considerations when offering blueberries to squirrels:
- Avoid moldy berries that could cause digestive issues.
- Too many berries can lead to weight gain and dental issues.
- Regular feedings teach dependency on humans for food.
To reduce risks, offer fresh berries occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Monitor portion sizes to prevent overeating.
How to feed blueberries to wild birds and squirrels
If you want to offer blueberries in your backyard, here are some tips:
Offer berries in small amounts
Start by offering just a handful of berries per day. This prevents animals from gorging and getting sick. Once you know what amount gets eaten up quickly, adjust quantities as needed.
Scatter berries on the ground
Sprinkle berries over bare soil or platforms where squirrels and ground-feeding birds can easily spot them. Scattering limits crowding and competition.
Skewer berries on sticks or strings
Thread blueberries onto sticks stuck in the ground or hang strings of fruit from trees and bird feeders. This allows perching birds easy access to pick berries.
Put berries in platform feeders
Special tiered fruit feeders with drainage holes allow safe presentation of fresh berries for birds. Position feeders in shady areas out of direct sun.
Offer crushed berries in feeders
Small birds like finches have trouble eating whole blueberries. Offer crushed fruit sprinkled on platform feeders they can comfortably eat from.
Clean up old berries
Check feeding areas daily and remove any spoiled, dried out or moldy berries that could make wildlife ill. Rinse feeders to prevent bacteria growth.
Don’t leave berries sitting out overnight
Only put enough berries out for a day’s feeding then remove leftovers at dusk. This limits the attraction of bears, raccoons and opossums.
Conclusion
Blueberries are a nutritious treat that can be safely enjoyed by wild birds and squirrels. In moderation, berries offer essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants and hydration. To limit risks, offer fresh, ripe blueberries in small amounts and avoid spoiled berries. With some simple feeding tips, you can attract beautiful and interesting wildlife into your yard with juicy summer blueberries.
