Squirrels are a common sight in many areas, and are known for their agility and playful behavior. They are omnivores and their diet can vary depending on the season and location. Squirrels typically eat a variety of foods such as seeds, nuts, fruits, berries, and insects. They also occasionally eat small insects, worms and even small birds eggs.
Do Squirrels Eat Cherry Tomatoes?
Whether squirrels eat cherry tomatoes Squirrels do eat cherry tomatoes, just like any other type of tomato. They are known to nibble on the fruit and sometimes even dig up the entire plant to get to the tomatoes.
Factors that may influence a squirrel’s willingness to eat cherry tomatoes Some factors that may influence a squirrel’s willingness to eat cherry tomatoes include the availability of other food sources, the ripeness of the tomatoes, and the presence of predators in the area. For example, if there are plenty of other food sources available, such as nuts and berries, squirrels may be less likely to eat tomatoes.
On the other hand, if the tomatoes are ripe and easily accessible, squirrels may be more inclined to eat them. Additionally, if there are predators in the area, such as cats or birds of prey, squirrels may be less likely to forage for food in an open area where they are more visible.
Do Squirrels Eat Cherry Tomatoes? Prevention and control measures
Ways to deter squirrels from eating cherry tomatoes There are several ways to deter squirrels from eating cherry tomatoes, including:
- Using physical barriers: Fencing or netting around the tomato plants can help keep squirrels out.
- Using repellents: Some people have had success with using repellents such as pepper spray or hot sauce on their tomatoes, but these methods may need to be reapplied frequently.
- Providing an alternative food source: By placing food such as sunflower seeds or peanuts in a different area of the garden, you may be able to distract squirrels from eating your tomatoes.
- Trapping: using humane live-traps to catch squirrels and release them far away from your garden.
Tips for protecting tomato plants from squirrels
- Planting tomatoes in raised beds or pots can make it more difficult for squirrels to access the plants.
- Pruning tomato plants regularly to remove any low-hanging branches or leaves that squirrels could use as a bridge to reach the tomatoes.
- Watering tomato plants in the morning, so that the foliage has time to dry out before nightfall, can help to discourage squirrels from climbing the plants.
- Avoiding over-fertilizing tomato plants, as this can make the fruit more attractive to squirrels.
- Keep a close eye on your tomato plants and take action as soon as you notice any damage, as this can help to minimize the damage caused by squirrels.
Conclusion: Do Squirrels Eat Cherry Tomatoes?
Squirrels are known to eat cherry tomatoes, just like any other type of tomato. Factors that may influence a squirrel’s willingness to eat cherry tomatoes include the availability of other food sources, the ripeness of the tomatoes, and the presence of predators in the area.
To prevent squirrels from eating cherry tomatoes, there are several options such as using physical barriers, repellents, providing an alternative food source, trapping and protecting tomato plants by planting in raised beds or pots, pruning, watering in the morning, avoiding over-fertilizing and keeping a close eye on the plants.
