* Trees: This is the most common source. Squirrels gather nuts from trees like oaks, walnuts, hickories, and pines. They often collect these nuts while they're still on the tree and bury them for later.
* Bird feeders: Squirrels are opportunistic feeders and will take advantage of bird feeders, especially those filled with nuts and seeds.
* Gardens: Squirrels may raid gardens to find nuts and seeds, especially in the fall when food is scarce.
* Human-provided sources: Squirrels may be given nuts by people, either intentionally or unintentionally. This can be through bird feeders, or people may simply leave out nuts for squirrels.
* Their own caches: Squirrels bury nuts and seeds throughout the year, remembering where they hid them later on to eat. They can even remember where they buried nuts years ago!
It's important to note that squirrels don't just eat nuts. They also consume fruits, seeds, mushrooms, and even insects!