Understanding Squirrel Behavior
Squirrels are fascinating creatures with charming personalities. They are intelligent, adaptable, and have a reputation for being curious and mischievous. Squirrels love exploring their surroundings, and their playfulness often lands them in trouble.
When it comes to gardens, squirrels are known to be notorious plant thieves. They have a keen sense of smell and can sniff out food from a distance. Squirrels also have sharp teeth that they use to gnaw on various objects, including plants.
What Vegetables Do Squirrels Eat?
Squirrels are omnivores and can eat a wide range of foods. They mainly feed on nuts and seeds, but they also consume fruits, insects, and small animals. In gardens, squirrels are likely to consume vegetables that are easy to access and have a high nutritional value.
Squirrels are particularly fond of sweet vegetables, such as corn, peas, and sweet potatoes. They also enjoy leafy greens like lettuce and spinach. However, they may also eat other vegetables if they are hungry and no other food is available.
List of Vegetables Squirrels Eat
- Corn
- Peas
- Sweet Potatoes
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
How to Protect Your Garden from Squirrels
If you’re a gardener, squirrels can be a significant nuisance. They can destroy your plants and ruin your harvest. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your garden from squirrels.
Natural Deterrents
One way to deter squirrels from your garden is to use natural deterrents. These are substances that squirrels find unpleasant and avoid. Some common natural deterrents are:
- Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper around your garden to deter squirrels. The spicy taste is unpleasant to them, and they will avoid the area.
- Coffee Grounds: Spread used coffee grounds around your garden. The strong smell will deter squirrels from coming near.
- Garlic: Plant garlic around your garden. The strong odor will keep squirrels away.
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers are also an effective way to protect your garden from squirrels. These are physical structures that prevent squirrels from accessing your plants. Some common physical barriers are:
- Fences: Install a fence around your garden to prevent squirrels from entering. Make sure the fence is at least six feet tall and has no gaps or holes.
- Netting: Cover your plants with netting to prevent squirrels from reaching them. Make sure the netting is tight and has no gaps.
Traps
If all else fails, you can use traps to catch squirrels. However, trapping squirrels may not be legal in all areas, so make sure to check your local laws before attempting it. You can use live traps to catch squirrels and release them elsewhere.
Conclusion
Squirrels are cute and entertaining creatures, but they can also be a significant problem for gardeners. They are known to eat a wide range of vegetables, including sweet potatoes, peas, and corn. However, there are several ways to protect your garden from squirrels, including natural deterrents, physical barriers, and traps. By taking these measures, you can ensure a bountiful harvest and keep your garden safe from these curious critters.