Can Birds Eat Almonds?

Looking for some different foods to add to your bird feeder? If you’re wondering if birds can eat almonds, yes, they can. Almonds can be a nutritious snack for birds, offering protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. However, like any treat outside their natural diet, there are a few precautions you should know beforehand.

Which Birds Might Eat Almonds?

Several backyard birds enjoy nuts, including almonds. Some of these birds are:

Blue Jays: They are known to be particularly fond of nuts and would likely enjoy almonds.
Woodpeckers: These birds often eat nuts and seeds and may be attracted to almonds.
Chickadees and Nuthatches: Small and agile, these birds can handle nuts like almonds, especially if they are broken into smaller pieces.
Titmice: Similar to chickadees, they also enjoy nuts and could eat almonds.

How to Serve Almonds to Birds

Plain, raw almonds are best for birds. Break almonds into smaller pieces to make them easier for birds to eat and to prevent choking hazards.

Avoid salted or roasted almonds (or any type of nut) since birds don’t need that extra salt and any other spices that may be added. Candied almonds and chocolate almonds should not be fed to birds.

Also avoid bitter almonds, as they contain substances that can be toxic to birds.

Avoid Unwanted Visitors

Be aware that almonds may very well draw unexpected visitors to your bird feeding station! Along with squirrels, you may draw nighttime visitors, too. Recently I put nuts in our empty bird bath and they didn’t get eaten during the day. That night, a fox came around for a midnight snack!

game camera photo of fox on top of bird bath, looking at camera

I’ve learned: all the nuts need to be fed early in the morning so they can be consumed during the day!

FAQ

Can Birds Eat Almond Milk?

Almond milk is not recommended for birds. While not toxic, it doesn’t offer any nutritional benefit to them and can contain additives like sugar or sweeteners that are harmful to birds.

Can Birds Eat Almonds with Shells?

Some larger birds like jays, ravens and crows can eat unshelled almonds, it’s generally more practical and safer to offer shelled almonds, especially for a mixed backyard bird population. This way, you cater to a variety of birds and ensure that all can enjoy this treat safely.

In conclusion, almonds can be a healthy treat for birds when offered properly. Ensuring the almonds are plain and unsalted, and serving them in small, manageable pieces, can make them a safe and enjoyable addition to a backyard bird’s diet. However, always prioritize a balanced diet for the birds, including seeds, fruits, and insects, which are more natural and nutritious for them.