Even though they are contributing to it, I don't agree that the neighbors should have to clean up the mess these squirrels leave on your lawn. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/wink.gif[/img], Alleluia! My neighbor puts out about a quart of bird feed and peanuts a day. We were also looking forward to having a large garden in the summer, and although any garden can have its fair share of pests, this is over the top. Perhaps if you could get her involved in a friendly way with the family, she would be more helpful. Feeding raw peanuts to squirrels and other animals can have serious consequences. When I was small, I loved giving peanuts to squirrels. After about a month of feeding them, my neighbor was able to get them to eat out of her hand. (When's that island going to be ready?) contain peanuts both with. I would get some of the wildlife mix I mention in the article right away and quit feeding peanuts immediately. 57-year-old Eugene Oates from Vero Beach, Florida became enraged because his neighbor kept feeding squirrels peanuts.According to police, the battle between the neighbors first started because Oates was furious about peanut shells that were deposited all over his lawn. Having to scrub his shoes after every library trip gets old fast. that they use them to fill up their packages. I myself find walnut shells in my yard quite often. I haven't seen any shells around and this was a few months ago and I really haven't talked to her since. We would find peanut shells all over our yard. ], I'm so happy for you! This is He says they're attracting mice. Not only is this making a mess of our lawn, but I … The biggest complications you have right now are: 1. you have too many squirrels feeding in your back yard and 2. you have a garden. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your California Privacy Rights (each updated 1/1/21). Squirrels have a tendency to gorge themselves and overeat, and corn is difficult to digest, particularly in large amounts. Not only is this making a mess of our lawn, but I am worried about our children picking these up (we have two toddlers). It is a disgusting mess. Then, you can take all of the steps you mention. Your experiences sound so similar. Good luck. About a year ago, I fired off an e-mail to the city about a squirrel feeder that is filled with peanuts that is next to the front door of the main library. since this all happened with a few other neighbors there (with mouths open, shocked expression on faces) and she said she would shell the peanuts before she put them out. Neighbors are feeding peanuts to the animals, who make a mess in reader’s yard. pSarah/p, Perhaps an expensive proposition, but could you provide the old lady with her squirrel snacks....offer to drop off a bag of sunflower seeds (if they don't pose a hazard) or a loaf of bread each week, if she quits with the peanuts? momjd So, unless you live in Loveland, Colorado, the decision is yours. Awareness | Causes | Food Allergy News | New Product News | Other Allergies | Peanut Allergy News | Prevention | Restaurants | Travel | Videos. There have been many arguments regarding the matter of feeding the squirrels. By Betty Wang, JD on August 27, 2013 2:03 PM. Many people like to feed squirrels because they're cute and not usually aggressive, but feeding squirrels has negative unforeseen consequences. It seems that our wall-sharing neighbor is buying peanuts to feed the squirrels, and by the looks of it, she buys in bulk! They are very cute. DANGERS OF FEEDING RAW PEANUTS TO SQUIRRELS Feeding raw peanuts to squirrels and other animals can have serious consequences. (As you can tell I've lost my own optimism regarding the kindness of others in the past few months) feed peanuts to squirrels! The squirrels will stash the peanuts in all sorts of crazy places and some of the raw peanuts … Stanley Mysliwiec this week received a summons from police to respond to charges he ignored a Feb. 2 City of Thunder Bay bylaw order demanding he … She's a bit crazy but that's a whole other story). We love to feed many different types of wildlife, but squirrels are probably our favorite. Geez.). Good luck! Fla. Man Goes Nuts on Neighbor for Feeding Squirrels. Anything you could do in your yard that would really bother your neighbor? /p Even according to the United States Department Of Agriculture has also given their statement against feeding the squirrels. My car gets about 20 bird poops a day, my deck has squirrel poop and peanut shells scattered around it, and my sidewalk and front steps get about 30 pigeon droppings a day. There are walnut trees about a block away, and the crows carry them over here to drop on our tile roofs and patios to break them open. . Breakfast, Cookies, Healthy Snacks, Nutrition Bars & Shakes, Important Things To Look For In Peanut-Free Chocolates, A Delicious Nut-Free Pecan Pie Recipe Does Exist, Cooking And Baking With Peanut Butter Substitutes, What To Look For In A Peanut-Free Food Label, Make A Delectable Cake With These Peanut-Free Cake Mixes, How To Find Peanut-Free Protein Bars For Your On-The-Go Snack, Enjoy These Favorite Peanut-Free Ice Creams. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. Dear Disappointed: As stewards to our animals, we have a duty to do everything we can to protect them. This sounds like a very difficult and disturbing situation! Therefore, if you choose to feed your squirrels corn, be aware of these common predicaments! I know the feeling... [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img] Miriam. Yes, Acorns are a stable of a Squirrels diet. Dear Giver: I agree with you that thanking people is easier than ever. pAny suggestions for dealing with this? This is We’ve noticed that there is a trio of plump and happy squirrels who spend most of their time on a small tree just outside of our window. They would come up and take them from your fingers. It is surprising (and alarming if you have a... Those with severe peanut allergies soon learn to look for the 'peanut-free sign' on any packaged food purchase. But the tree squirrel common in Bremerton isn't a pest to everyone, Mednick soon found. They do this out of the simple fact, that peanuts are so inexpensive. Click here for more information on DMCA policy. Throughout the year, I advocate for the needs of our animal friends and companions. pTIA!/p FWIW, even though I don't have a peanut feedin' neighbor nearby (that I know of) I'm still afraid to let ds outside b/c I do see squirrels around. Peanuts – Be careful about feeding them any peanuts, especially raw peanuts. Get the COVID-19 information you need. It's not a question of whether people love or hate squirrels, but whether feeding the bushy-tailed fur balls is safe for them, as well as the nature in general. (I am certain there are exceptions to this; my own parents and in-laws are very understanding, but they have a personal and dear reason to "get it".) (This woman also has about 9 bird feeders in a very small yard, puts bread out for the animals, carrots, etc. What to Feed and What not to Feed a Squirrel. Hope this helps. Many people, including wildlife experts, don't think it's a great idea, for a variety of reasons. It’s one thing to put bird seed out, but a whole other can of worms to create a squirrel feeding station and feed them peanuts by the pound. Amy, there is not a single moment that I've looked out the window and not seen a squirrel on our roof, tree, or lawn, and they almost always have a peanut in their mouth. The results can even be fatal if peanuts compose a large and constant part of the diet. And I was always finding peanut shells in the yard. It’s not a big deal, and for the squirrels it’s a move up to a better environment. Stop Feeding Squirrels- Here's why: Feeding squirrels is harmful to squirrels, humans, and everything. It seems to be beneath them. © 2021 Advance Local Media LLC. Residence: Colerain Twp, Hamilton County Ohio. Peanuts are legumes and the shells can get a mold that’s toxic for the squirrels. OOPS! The squirrels then take these peanuts and leave them all over our yard--I find peanuts and peanut shells on our front porch, buried in plant pots, strewn on the front and back sidewalks, and all over the lawn. to the giver is sufficient, in my book. There is a raging debate over whether or not we should feed squirrels. or ground squirrels, which are immune to the following: I understand your confusion, cause most wildlife prepackaged foods. One local family is asking Midtown neighbors to stop feeding peanuts to the squirrels. Squirrels wantonly disposing of peanut shells might qualify, but if Oates tries to sue his neighbor for it, it's more likely that a court will think the claimant is a little, well, nuts. (Our cat is missing- so the squirrels have free reign) Click on one of the categories below to see all forum topics. My neighbor puts out about a quart of bird feed and peanuts a day. If we'd known who it was we would have definitely asked them to please stop because it was quite a problem not being able to let our peanut allergic child play outside when he was small. You can also visit our Community for support and information. That was wood who went through it last year. Ugh! Peanuts – Be careful about feeding them any peanuts, especially raw peanuts. And during one visit, his neighbor was holding a 5-pound bag of peanuts in her hands. This was pretty surprising since most people say to feed them all the peanuts. You read that right. I find this lack of awareness and concern very upsetting. a peanut!" Their friends, however, do not. Squirrels are known for eating nuts, but their diets consist of fungi, fruits, nuts, and seeds. They plan far enough in advance to bury certain nuts for certain … I'm so sorry, I remember you going through this and thinking it had been resolved last year. A few have thanked me, verbally or in a written note, but from the rest, nothing. Dear Amy: I have three adult children. The reason why this food source is so beneficial is because it gives squirrels chewing exercise, and it also delivers natural protein and essential fatty acids, and it’s very important that squirrels receive these dietary components.. Do Squirrels Eat Acorns. Dear Going Nuts: You should introduce yourselves to your neighbors. They are also digging our lawn to bits. I can hardly imagine the stress of feeling that your own yard is so unsafe, and to top it off you have to keep cleaning! If you want to feed raw peanuts then check to make sure that the peanuts do not have any mold. If someone declares to you that he never thanks people for anything, then I think you should interpret this as a statement that he no longer wants to receive gifts. and without shells. Q Yesterday, my neighbor left a note requesting that I no longer feed the birds and squirrels with hopper feeders. pWe have an elderly next door neighbor, kind of reclusive, but her one trip out of the house each day is to leave birdseed for the birds and peanuts for the squirrels. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. If the neighbors around them hate animals, this is of no concern whatsoever to animal lovers. Karen Recently we had thousands of $$ of siding work done and already the squirrels are ripping into the grating and getting back into our attic. The squirrels are living and feasting exclusively on our side of the lawn! Sarah, . Last year we kept finding peanuts in our yard from the squirrels. We had a neighbor (never figured out which one) that used to feed peanuts to the squirrels. Joined: 06/08/2000 - 09:00. pWe have an elderly next door neighbor, kind of reclusive, but her one trip out of the house each day is to leave birdseed for the birds and peanuts for the squirrels. Recently I have been seeing more peanuts in the yard, in our playpark, and worst of all in the sandbox ---"Look mommy! You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.). The type of nuts they eat will depend on what they can get a hold of. That way, they’ll encourage the … This was pretty surprising since most people say to feed them all the peanuts. Its obvious that we dont want to feed them anything that is going to cause harm, and we dont want to feed them what would be considered the equivalent of junk f… I am sending *sell quickly* vibes! Peanuts Simply taking a picture of the item and sending the picture with a texted message of "Thank you!" People often suggest that feeding squirrels are not a good idea at all. Ask if these rodents have been scampering across their roof, gnawing on the woodwork, and chewing through their wiring (squirrels love the rubber coating on wiring, by the way). I hate it that we can't even play on our own swingset without worrying that my DD is going to have an allergic reaction. It wasn't one neighbor feeding the squirrels, but several neighbors. The material on this site is for informational and educational purposes only. I don't have a lack of awareness (and personally donate to my local shelter), but my "giving" column each year focuses on nonprofits that help humans. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Turn on a portable radio as soon as your neighbor starts feeding the birds. They seem to forget easily, and sometimes don't understand. These recipes can still be enjoyed by experimenting with peanut butter replacements. Say, "If you are feeding them, we hope you will stop." Peanuts are legumes and the shells can get a mold that’s toxic for the squirrels. Note to readers: if you purchase something through one of our affiliate links we may earn a commission. Unless they are chipmunks. Actually, the fight wasn't even about the peanuts -- it was the peanut shells that set him off. Stop Feeding Squirrels- Here's why: Feeding squirrels is harmful to squirrels, humans, and everything. The squirrels then take these peanuts and leave them all over our yard--I find peanuts and peanut shells on our front porch, buried in plant pots, strewn on the front and back sidewalks, and all over the lawn. I thought the squirrels we bad - I basically cannot have any potted plants since they take these peanuts … I have given generously to these young people, for wedding registries, baby showers, etc. Have you tried talking to your neighbor yet, or is she just not going to cooperate? But I would really talk to her in a very friendly way, taking along a nice batch of cookies or something. She may be very lonely. There are now about 50 pigeons and 15 squirrels feeding there. Mednick asked them to stop and was rebuffed, conversations all parties say didn't go well. Not only is this making a mess of our lawn, but I am worried about our children picking these up (we have two toddlers). Squirrels will gladly eat peanuts or anything you feed them. You should also consider trapping these pals (the squirrels, not the neighbors) and relocating them (again, the squirrels, not the neighbors) to a far-off habitat. When I catch one, I take it to a park about 3 miles away where a lot of people feed the squirrels and let it go. Stay informed, stay safe. [This message has been edited by deegann (edited February 09, 2005). Surely we can all coexist peacefully. Sometimes I begin an explanation of pa by saying "I know this must sound totally crazy/unbelievable..." I don't know if it helps or not, but I feel like acknowledging that it sounds bizarre makes it less likely that people will just think I am bizarre. They can have some, but make sure the nuts are roasted if you do throw some out for the critters. There are now about 50 pigeons and 15 squirrels feeding there. 4. Since I am allergic to tree nuts, too, it freaked me out at first, but my husband handles cleaning them up. Native squirrels have a diet that is tuned to our natural native food sources, and being smaller than the Eastern squirrels, are likely to be intimidated at the squirrel feeder. Squirrels have a tendency to gorge themselves and overeat, and corn is difficult to digest, particularly in large amounts. It seems that our wall-sharing neighbor is buying peanuts to feed the squirrels, and by the looks of it, she buys in bulk! Or do we knock on the door and ask them to stop?! Therefore, if you choose to feed your squirrels corn, be aware of these common predicaments! I am so sorry that this is happening. We have had an exterminator out to remove squirrels humanely from our attic, costing several hundred dollars in expenses to him and in repairs. North York. Gaylord Sigman, who lives in the 300 block of East 32nd Street, received a citation for reportedly feeding squirrels, after a neighbor who lives across the street complained. PS I'm not really thrilled with her still feeding the peanuts but at least DS doesn't scream everytime he walks outside anymore. DEAR CATHY: That is a very serious concern, which is why if folks do feed peanuts to squirrels and birds, they should not put out too many at a time. Depending on how your neighbors respond, you can simply make it very clear that you are going to do everything you can to eradicate or relocate this trio. Gaylord Sigman, who lives in the 300 block of East 32nd Street, received a citation for reportedly feeding squirrels, after a neighbor who lives across the street complained. Neighbors may still find what you do on your own property objectionable. My car gets about 20 bird poops a day, my deck has squirrel poop and peanut shells scattered around it, and my sidewalk and front steps get about 30 pigeon droppings a day. I think the neighbor should have to clean up the atrocious mess on our lawn and stop feeding these pests, but having that be our first-ever communication doesn't make for a friendly start. It seems that our wall-sharing neighbor is buying peanuts to feed the squirrels, and by the looks of it, she buys in bulk! Possibly you could get her to tell you and your family about the birds that visit. Q Yesterday, my neighbor left a note requesting that I no longer feed the birds and squirrels with hopper feeders. A very sweet, kind, well-educated young man told me once that he just didn't acknowledge gifts, even if he likes it. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of Peanut Allergy's terms & conditions and privacy policy. Peanuts and peanut oil are cheap and easy additives to food and other commercial goods. Well, I think she was a bit embarrassed by all this, esp. I live in senior development (thank goodness, I am the baby here -- LOL), and many of the people here are quite elderly. Dear Amy: I appreciate your annual column devoted to charities, but yet again you failed to suggest any charities benefiting animals! Bylaw charge won't stop man from feeding squirrels He said the neighbour was upset with the amount of peanut shells and bird droppings left behind. I'm not sure if this is a trend; I can assert that this is a perennial frustration for many. Amy, there is not a single moment that I've looked out the window and not seen a squirrel on our roof, tree, or lawn, and they almost always have a … Peanuts are actually legumes, but squirrels will eat them if they come across them. Squirrels are usually smart enough to avoid dangerous molds but it doesn’t hurt to be careful. It can also grow mold quickly, which can be toxic, or even fatal, for squirrels. She may think you are just an over protective and paranoid mom. Photo by Kimihiro Hoshino. Instead, consider giving them walnuts, acorns, hazelnuts, pecans or other nuts that are safer for these critters. A Vero Beach man has been arrested after he assaulted his neighbor for feeding the squirrels in their neighborhood, according to a report from the … I have a neighbor who is also feeding peanuts, but to blue jays not squirrels, although I'm sure the squirrels get in them too! So many wonderful recipes call for peanut butter. If your backyard squirrels love eating peanuts, make sure you don’t overdo it. Should we make a show of if by going out with gloves and garbage bags, trying to cover the tree, and leave squirrel repellent bottles outside? Not only is this making a mess of our lawn, but I am worried about our children picking these up (we have two toddlers). If you're still undecided on your squirrel feeding position, the local, federal or state government may decide for you, especially in public parks where feeding squirrels is often illegal. Email/texting is easy, free, and instantaneous, unlike writing a note and having to pay postage and put it in a mailbox. He didn't give me a reason. Currently I deal with the situation by cleaning and sweeping constantly, and only allowing my DD outside with supervision (which we would do anyway since she's only three) but it's hard to keep up on a daily basis and frustrating that we have to be so vigilant on our own turf./p ©2020 PeanutAllergy.com. He says they're attracting mice. But maybe if you did try to talk to her and explain that your home is truly your only safe haven maybe she'll "get it". I told her that if the situation was reversed I would stop feeding peanuts to the birds for her children, or anyone elses for that matter. I'm aggrivated that they never did a thing about it. Many people like to feed squirrels because they're cute and not usually aggressive, but feeding squirrels has negative unforeseen consequences. If youre like us, then you absolutely love feeding squirrels. If you require more information or need assistance please contact us. In the course of your conversation, you should also ask them what they are doing about the squirrel infestation. For more information please visit our privacy policy. Ask them about the neighborhood, about trash and recycling pickup, etc. Acorns are extremely popular if there are oak trees nearby that allow them to consume them. (I can well imagine what a pain in the bneck this situation must be for you....your own home being invaded by nuts. Maybe send her a picture of your daughter with a note written on it saying "Please stop trying to kill me"; or collect all the shells, put them in a bag and leave them on her doorstep for a week with a note saying "please ask your friends to stop littering in my yard"? Don’t forget to check out some of the best wild squirrel feed lists that I’ve put together to help you get more ideas of what to feed your squirrels. We talked to the neighbor about a year ago and asked her to stop or to find an alternate food for the squirrels because of my DD's life threatening peanut allergy, but I'm still finding the peanuts. I feel a bit bad for being so happy about it, but I think we can finally stop worrying about the peanuts in our yard! All rights reserved. Subscribe now. I would not feed them peanuts. The results can even be fatal if peanuts compose a large and constant part of the diet. This includes gifts that were on a registry, which the recipient clearly indicated they wanted. Bait it with whatever your neighbor is using to feed the little vermin. They seem to like this mix almost as much as peanut butter, which says a lot. Our yard and flower beds are constantly littered with hundreds of store-bought peanut shells. Sometimes, they would stand a few feet away and eat it. Alleluia!!! I think I would talk to her again. A Florida man allegedly assaulted his neighbor for feeding peanuts to squirrels. When people first start nature watching and feeding squirrels, theyre not quite sure what to feed these cute little creatures. Squirrels will eat most of the peanuts you give them but will stash some of them away to eat during winter. Mar 31st, 2013 2:21 pm. Dear Amy: We have just moved into a new semi-detached home and have not yet met the neighbor in the adjoining house. After years of dealing with this, FINALLY our elderly neighbor is selling her house and moving away!!! All rights reserved (About Us). About a year ago, a tenant moved in there and began throwing peanutes out thier back porch to feed the invasive eastern gray squirrels that inhabit Portland. My husband spoke to the neighbors, and they admitted that they sometimes feed the sqirrels peanuts, but would stop doing so. This should help thin them out without starving them. I also think that older people are often among those who truly don't understand about life threatening food allergies. It can also grow mold quickly, which can be toxic, or even fatal, for squirrels. It seems that our wall-sharing neighbor is buying peanuts to feed the squirrels, and by the looks of it, she buys in bulk! I think WoozerMom had some really good ideas. Related Resources: Eugene Oates assaults neighbor, angry about him feeding squirrels peanuts, arrest report says (West Palm Beach, Florida's WPBF-TV) PeanutAllergy.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. I asked her if she would mind finding another "treat" for them and she said NO! [This message has been edited by momjd (edited June 23, 2002).]. Eugene Oates, 57, of Vero Beach, was arrested for battery after he allegedly grabbed neighbor Ernest Willette and forced … Peanuts There are peanut shells at the base of this feeder, including part of the sidewalk. I raised them to thank people for gifts. Anyway I couldn't believe she said no and I told her that she had no idea what it was like for us, not being able to do the things that most kids can, like go for ice cream, to a ball game, eat the candy when we go trick or treating, etc. Squirrels also love pistachios, and they are good for them. What Food Not to Feed Squirrels. I would say move, but how does one ask a real estate agent to interview all the neighbors on their peanut policy? (You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O.