Can squirrels get parasites​ from eating ants and other insects?

[bednarkim77]

Winnie likes to chase down ants and eat them, can she get parasites? I am also concerned worried about her eating bugs because all together because of pesticides, I don't use pesticides but I can't guarantee the houses next to me don't. Suggestions and info?

[stepnstone]

[QUOTE=bednarkim77;1217522]Winnie likes to chase down ants and eat them, can she get parasites? I am also concerned worried about her eating bugs because all together because of pesticides, I don't use pesticides but I can't guarantee the houses next to me don't. Suggestions and info?

I wouldn't think a live one would have been sprayed with pesticides and still be kicking but pesticides should always be a concern.
Never heard of any parasites coming from an ant and very likely they among other insects are eaten in the wild also.

[Diggie's Friend]

Not sure about ants, but other larger insects may carry intestinal parasites that can be transferred upon ingestion.

The eggs of worms, or diseases insects may carry, including e coli, may be passed on to the host that ingests them.

For this reason I personally would not recommend feeding wild sourced insects to cared for squirrels.

Instead I am glad to recommend this source of farm raised insects to support your squirrel.

The organic dried superworms are what a friend of mine uses this for their squirrel, that really goes for them!

Just make sure that you don't feed her more than 1/2 Tsp. abouts, as they are a fat and protein source.

This source is located in Florida; super people that run this business by the way! Camillies Vita-Mealies. http://vita-mealie.weebly.com/our-story.html

[Diggie's Friend]

On second check I found that Camillies Vita-Mealies is presently located in North Carolina. http://vita-mealie.weebly.com/