How to Preserve Acorns for Squirrels
Acorns, the hard-shelled nuts that fall from a variety of oak trees, are commonly associated with squirrels who seem to love the nuts. The busy critters can be seen during autumn collecting and burying the brown-colored nuts. Although acorns are eaten primarily by squirrels and other wildlife, they once served as a staple part of the Native American diet. The acorns buried by squirrels serve to feed them throughout the winter and benefit the environment by leading to the growth of new oak trees. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Acorns are often buried beneath fallen leaves. Rake acorns that have fallen to the ground into a pile. Since the nuts can roll or fall within feet of the branches, check throughout yard or surrounding area to ensure make sure you've raked up as many acorns as possible.
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Sort through the pile of acorns and remove sticks, leaves and other debris so you have only a pile of acorns left.
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Look over each acorn to check that it doesn't have any small holes bored into the nut, which would indicate worms. Toss acorns with holes off to the side for the squirrels to find.
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Place a few cups of the collected acorns in a plastic bag. Store these acorns in the refrigerator for two weeks before distributing them outdoors for squirrels. Alternatively, you can put the rest of the acorns in a basket and store them in a cool, dark location, such as a basement or pantry. Distribute these acorns outdoors over the course of the winter season.
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Tips & Warnings
Place acorns in a pile underneath bird feeders during the winter season. Since squirrels will be attracted to the easy food sources provided by the bird feeders, they are likely to find the pile of acorns and will return to this spot in search of more.
Do not allow the acorns to become moist as they will develop mold or mildew.
References
Resources
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