I feed squirrels indirectly - I have a large walnut tree that attracts the furry devils from miles around.
It seems 2 tribes of squirrels would visit the tree at different periods throughout the day with the leaders fighting for browsing rights.
They litter the yard and walk with nut shells, then they travel on the overhead power lines to avoid the dogs.
We have pecan trees that get lots of action during late fall and into winter. They ones they knock to the ground are still plentiful.
Ours jump from tree to tree and use the power lines to cross the streets. I have only seen one dead squirrel and that boy little guy fell into traffic when he lost his balance on a power line.