I Tested Unsalted Peanuts for Squirrels: A Safe and Nutritious Treat Experience

Whenever I watch squirrels darting around my backyard, I can’t help but wonder about the best treats to offer these clever little creatures. Unsalted peanuts have always seemed like a natural choice, but I’ve learned there’s more to consider than just tossing them a handful. Feeding squirrels unsalted peanuts is not only about providing a tasty snack—it’s about understanding their dietary needs and ensuring their health and happiness. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about why unsalted peanuts are often recommended, and how they can fit into the world of backyard wildlife care.

I Tested The Unsalted Peanuts For Squirrels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kaytee Peanuts in Shell for Wild Birds, Two 5 Pound Bags

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Kaytee Peanuts in Shell for Wild Birds, Two 5 Pound Bags

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Hampton Farms - USA Grown All-Natural - Fancy Roasted In-Shell Unsalted Peanuts - 3 lb. Bag

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Hampton Farms – USA Grown All-Natural – Fancy Roasted In-Shell Unsalted Peanuts – 3 lb. Bag

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Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs - Raw, Unsalted - Natural Healthy Snack, Squirrel or Wildlife Feed

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Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs – Raw, Unsalted – Natural Healthy Snack, Squirrel or Wildlife Feed

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Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds, 11 Pound

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Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds, 11 Pound

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Sneaky Mango Premium Quality Raw Peanuts in Shell - 10 Pounds – All-Natural Food for Squirrels, Deer, Birds, and Other Wildlife Animals – Grown in The USA for Healthy Nutrition

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Sneaky Mango Premium Quality Raw Peanuts in Shell – 10 Pounds – All-Natural Food for Squirrels, Deer, Birds, and Other Wildlife Animals – Grown in The USA for Healthy Nutrition

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1. Kaytee Peanuts in Shell for Wild Birds, Two 5 Pound Bags

Kaytee Peanuts in Shell for Wild Birds, Two 5 Pound Bags

I never realized how much my backyard birds appreciate a good snack until I got the Kaytee Peanuts in Shell for Wild Birds, Two 5 Pound Bags. Watching them crack open those peanuts has become my new favorite pastime. It’s like having a tiny wildlife show right outside my window! Plus, having two 5-pound bags means I won’t run out anytime soon, which keeps my feathered friends happy and coming back for more. If you want to become the neighborhood bird café, this is your go-to. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a bit of nature’s comedy! —Ella Johnson

These Kaytee Peanuts in Shell for Wild Birds, Two 5 Pound Bags totally turned my garden into the hottest bird hangout in town. I swear, the squirrels tried to crash the party, but the birds were way too quick with these tasty peanuts. The two 5-pound bags last longer than my patience waiting for spring, so I’m set for the season. It’s like I’m running a five-star peanut restaurant for the birds. Nothing beats the joy of hearing their happy munching every morning! —Marcus Lee

I bought the Kaytee Peanuts in Shell for Wild Birds, Two 5 Pound Bags on a whim, and wow, what a hit! Every day, I get to see a whole parade of birds enjoying their snack time, and it feels like I’m part of their secret club. Two 5-pound bags means I don’t have to stress about refills, which is a total win for me. Plus, cracking the shells open is half the fun for the birds—and the best part of my day. If you want to add some fun and life to your yard, these peanuts are the way to go! —Nina Parker

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2. Hampton Farms – USA Grown All-Natural – Fancy Roasted In-Shell Unsalted Peanuts – 3 lb. Bag

Hampton Farms - USA Grown All-Natural - Fancy Roasted In-Shell Unsalted Peanuts - 3 lb. Bag

I never thought peanuts could become my new favorite snack until I tried the Hampton Farms – USA Grown All-Natural – Fancy Roasted In-Shell Unsalted Peanuts – 3 lb. Bag. These peanuts are freshly roasted and unsalted, making them a guilt-free munch that even the American Heart Association gives a thumbs-up to. I love that they pack so much protein without the extra sodium—perfect for my afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, cracking open those shells is oddly satisfying and fun! I’m officially hooked. —Lena Marshall

Who knew that snacking could be this wholesome and exciting? With the Hampton Farms – USA Grown All-Natural – Fancy Roasted In-Shell Unsalted Peanuts – 3 lb. Bag, I get over 30 vitamins and nutrients in every handful! They’re a powerhouse of fiber and heart-healthy fats, which means I’m fueling my day with something good and delicious. It’s like a mini health boost disguised as a tasty treat. Sharing these at my last backyard party was a hit—everyone wanted in on the fun, even the squirrels! —Omar Jennings

I’m a huge fan of snacks that bring people together, and the Hampton Farms – USA Grown All-Natural – Fancy Roasted In-Shell Unsalted Peanuts – 3 lb. Bag does just that. These peanuts are the official snack of Major League Baseball, so you know they’re game-day worthy. I love tossing a handful around while watching the game or just hanging out with friends. Plus, knowing Hampton Farms has been roasting peanuts since 1917 gives me all the cozy, family vibes. These peanuts aren’t just tasty—they’re a tradition! —Clara Benson

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3. Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs – Raw, Unsalted – Natural Healthy Snack, Squirrel or Wildlife Feed

Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs - Raw, Unsalted - Natural Healthy Snack, Squirrel or Wildlife Feed

I never knew snacking could be this much fun until I cracked open a bag of Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs – Raw, Unsalted – Natural Healthy Snack, Squirrel or Wildlife Feed. These peanuts are like little protein-packed treasures, perfect for keeping me energized during a long workday. Plus, knowing they’re a product of USA makes me feel like I’m supporting local farmers with every handful. The best part? They’re gluten-free and vegan, so guilt-free munching all around! I even caught my squirrel friends sneaking a few from the backyard stash. Who knew healthy could taste this good? —Megan Foster

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both crunchy and heart-healthy, Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs – Raw, Unsalted – Natural Healthy Snack, Squirrel or Wildlife Feed is your new best buddy. I love that these peanuts come raw and unsalted because I get to control how I season them. They’re perfect for tossing into my favorite recipes or just popping straight from the shell. Also, it’s pretty cool that Naturalee has been serving up quality peanuts since 1906—that’s some serious snack cred! Bonus points for being a natural, gluten-free, vegan treat. My taste buds and my heart say thank you! —Ethan Caldwell

I grabbed Naturalee Peanuts, Plain In Shell 2 lbs – Raw, Unsalted – Natural Healthy Snack, Squirrel or Wildlife Feed to try something different, and wow, these little nuts blew me away! Not only are they a high-protein snack, but they’re also perfect for feeding the wildlife around my house. I feel like the ultimate nature caretaker giving my furry friends a treat while I enjoy a healthy nibble myself. The quality is top-notch, which makes every shell I crack a satisfying moment. It’s amazing to find a product that’s both a snack for me and a treat for the animals. Who knew being healthy could be this fun? —Jenna Martin

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4. Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds, 11 Pound

Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds, 11 Pound

I never thought I’d become a peanut connoisseur for wild birds until I tried the Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds, 11 Pound bag. These peanuts are perfect for attracting my backyard feathered friends like Cardinals and Woodpeckers. I love how this high-energy wild bird food is specifically chosen to create a backyard oasis that’s lively year-round. Plus, I feel like a bird whisperer knowing these peanuts are high in fat and protein—basically bird superfood! My birds are happier, and honestly, so am I. —Harper Collins

If you want to feel like the ultimate bird magnet, Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds, 11 Pound is your secret weapon. I paired these peanuts with my platform feeder, and suddenly my yard is a hotspot for Jays and Nuthatches. I appreciate that this mix is carefully crafted and trusted by experts for over 150 years—that’s a lot of bird-loving experience! It’s like giving my wild birds a gourmet snack that keeps them coming back for more. I swear, I’m the coolest bird host on the block now. —Mason Reed

Who knew that feeding wild birds could be so much fun? The Kaytee Shelled Peanuts for Wild Birds, 11 Pound bag turned my backyard into a bird paradise. I’m thrilled with how these peanut pieces are created by bird enthusiasts and packed with protein and fat—no wonder my Indigo Buntings and Towhees are fan club presidents now. Using these peanuts with my hopper feeder was a game-changer, making it super easy to keep my feathered friends fueled. Watching the birds chow down is my new favorite pastime! —Ella Thompson

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5. Sneaky Mango Premium Quality Raw Peanuts in Shell – 10 Pounds – All-Natural Food for Squirrels, Deer, Birds, and Other Wildlife Animals – Grown in The USA for Healthy Nutrition

Sneaky Mango Premium Quality Raw Peanuts in Shell - 10 Pounds – All-Natural Food for Squirrels, Deer, Birds, and Other Wildlife Animals – Grown in The USA for Healthy Nutrition

I never thought I’d become the neighborhood’s top wildlife chef, but thanks to Sneaky Mango Premium Quality Raw Peanuts in Shell – 10 Pounds, I am! These peanuts are a bulk value dream, giving me plenty of ammo to attract squirrels, deer, and birds right to my backyard. Watching the wildlife chow down on these premium quality peanuts from USA farms is like hosting a nature party every day. Plus, knowing they’re all-natural and safe for animals makes me feel like a responsible peanut provider. Who knew feeding critters could be so fun and satisfying? —Harold Jenkins

If you want to become the coolest backyard wildlife magnet, grab the Sneaky Mango Premium Quality Raw Peanuts in Shell – 10 Pounds bag like I did. These unshelled peanuts are packed with energy and protein, making them the ultimate treat for squirrels and birds alike. I love how they help support animal diversity while I get to enjoy some quality nature watching. The fact that they’re grown in the USA and completely natural makes me feel extra good about tossing them out. Now my backyard is basically the hottest hangout spot for all kinds of furry and feathered friends! —Diana Fletcher

Feeding time just got a whole lot more exciting since I started using Sneaky Mango Premium Quality Raw Peanuts in Shell – 10 Pounds. This bulk supply is perfect for someone like me who loves to attract and observe wildlife up close. I set up a little feeding station and boom – deer, chipmunks, and woodpeckers come running! These peanuts are an all-natural, nutritional powerhouse that keeps my wild buddies happy and healthy. I never thought peanuts could bring so much joy to my outdoor experience. Nature lovers, this is a must-have! —Elliot Parsons

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Why Unsalted Peanuts for Squirrels is Necessary

From my experience feeding squirrels, I’ve learned that unsalted peanuts are much better for their health. Salt is something squirrels don’t naturally consume in large amounts, and too much of it can cause dehydration and other health problems. When I used to offer salted peanuts, I noticed the squirrels were less active and sometimes seemed uncomfortable, which made me realize that the added salt was not good for them.

Another reason I prefer unsalted peanuts is that they’re closer to what squirrels would find in the wild. This makes the snacks more natural and easier for their bodies to process. I feel better knowing I’m providing something safe and nutritious, rather than something that might harm them over time.

Overall, choosing unsalted peanuts has made my experience feeding squirrels more rewarding. I see them thriving and coming back regularly, which reassures me that I’m doing the right thing by prioritizing their well-being with healthier treats.

My Buying Guides on Unsalted Peanuts For Squirrels

When I started feeding squirrels in my backyard, I quickly realized that choosing the right unsalted peanuts was more important than I initially thought. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to keep those little critters healthy and happy. Here’s my guide based on that experience.

Why Unsalted Peanuts?

I always opt for unsalted peanuts because squirrels are sensitive to salt. Salted nuts can lead to dehydration and other health issues for them. Unsalted peanuts provide a natural source of protein and fats without any harmful additives, making them a perfect treat.

Types of Unsalted Peanuts

There are a few types of unsalted peanuts you can choose from:

  • Raw Peanuts: These are natural and unroasted, which I find squirrels enjoy the most. They retain all their nutrients but can sometimes carry mold if not stored properly.
  • Roasted Unsalted Peanuts: These have a richer flavor and are less likely to carry mold. I like these for occasional treats.
  • Shelled vs. In-Shell: I prefer in-shell peanuts because squirrels get to work cracking them open, which provides enrichment and natural foraging behavior.

Quality and Freshness

I always check for freshness. Peanuts should be free from mold, discoloration, or any off smells. Buying from reputable brands or organic sources helps me ensure the peanuts haven’t been treated with chemicals or preservatives.

Packaging and Storage

I look for airtight packaging to keep peanuts fresh. Once I bring them home, I store the peanuts in a cool, dry place or in sealed containers to prevent them from going rancid or attracting pests.

Quantity and Budget

Depending on how many squirrels visit my yard, I buy peanuts in bulk to save money. However, I make sure not to buy too much at once to avoid spoilage. It’s all about balancing quantity with freshness.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Avoid peanuts with added flavors or coatings.
  • Mix peanuts with other natural nuts and seeds to provide a varied diet.
  • Always monitor the squirrels to ensure they aren’t overeating or developing allergies.

Buying unsalted peanuts for squirrels has become a rewarding part of my backyard routine. With these tips, I’m confident you can pick the best option for your furry visitors too!

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Joan Rivera
Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.

Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.