Can Wild Birds Eat Walnuts?
Yes, some can. Walnuts are a rich source of fat and calories, and a number of birds will eat them when they are plain, fresh, and in a size the bird can handle. The risks come mainly from salt, flavoring, mold, and pieces that are too big.
Which Birds Eat Walnuts?
- Jays and crows: these larger birds can carry off whole nuts, and they may crack or hammer them open.
- Woodpeckers: some larger species will take nut pieces.
- Chickadees, nuthatches, and titmice: they usually take small chopped bits, which they may carry off and store.
- Other visitors: some sparrows, cardinals, and wrens may sample small pieces.
Very small birds cannot handle large chunks, so size matters more than species. Peanuts are often more popular at feeders than walnuts. See our overview of seed-eating birds and the foods they prefer for other options.
Safety Rules for Feeding Walnuts
- Plain only. Choose raw, unsalted, unseasoned nuts. Avoid salted, candied, roasted-with-oil, or flavored walnuts.
- Chop them. Break nuts into small pieces so that birds do not choke and smaller species can eat them.
- Check for mold. Nuts that have become damp, discolored, or rancid should be thrown away. Moldy nuts can contain toxins that are harmful to birds.
- Offer small amounts. Put out only what birds will eat in a few days, particularly in wet weather.
- Keep feeders clean. Clean and dry feeders and trays regularly.
- Do not use nuts of doubtful quality. If a nut looks off or smells musty, it is not suitable.
Walnuts From Your Own Tree
If you have a walnut tree, fallen nuts are often eaten by squirrels, jays, and crows without any help from you. If you collect nuts to offer, remove the green husk (which stains hands) and discard any that look moldy. English and black walnuts are different, and black walnut husks can be messy. If you are not sure the nuts are in good condition, it is safer not to offer them.
Do Squirrels Eat Walnuts?
Yes, squirrels love them. If you want birds to get the nuts, use a feeder that squirrels cannot reach, or a smaller amount placed so birds can finish it quickly. Whole walnuts in a shell are usually taken by squirrels long before birds can get at them.
Other Questions Readers Ask
What birds eat safflower seeds? Cardinals, chickadees, titmice, grosbeaks, and doves are commonly mentioned. Many people find that squirrels pay less attention to it, but results vary.
What foods should I never put in a bird feeder? Common advice is to avoid bread, anything salted, moldy, or spoiled food, and anything with added sugar or flavoring. For one example, see feeding birds popcorn. For a safer food that adds variety, see feeding apples to birds.