Most people associate squirrels with gathering and burying nuts, but these busy rodents have a far more diverse diet than their reputation suggests. While seeds and nuts are a major part of their foraging efforts, the answer to whether squirrels eat bugs is a clear yes. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders, readily adapting their diet to whatever is available in their environment throughout the changing seasons. This dietary flexibility means they will actively seek out and consume insects, larvae, and other forms of small animal matter.
Yes, Squirrels Are Omnivores
Squirrels are biologically classified as omnivores, meaning their diet naturally includes both plant and animal matter. Although they are primarily recognized for eating vegetation, they possess the digestive capacity and behavioral inclination to consume meat. This omnivorous nature applies to various species, including common tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and flying squirrels.
As opportunistic feeders, they take advantage of any readily available food source. Incorporating animal protein into their diet helps ensure their survival when the availability of seeds and fruits fluctuates significantly. This behavior is a practical response to nutritional needs rather than a preference for animal matter over plants.
Insect Consumption: Seasonal Needs and Specific Prey
The consumption of insects and arthropods is often driven by the need for high-quality protein. This protein is particularly important during periods of increased physical demand, such as the breeding and nesting season. Female squirrels require a substantial protein boost for gestation and lactation when nursing their young.
Squirrels actively forage for various invertebrates, including grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillars, and grubs. They also seek out larvae, such as those found in the soil or rotting wood, which provide a concentrated source of fats and protein. They actively hunt for these protein-rich snacks in the spring to replenish energy reserves after winter scarcity.
During years when cicadas emerge in large numbers, squirrels have been observed feasting on them due to their abundance and high protein content. Tropical ground squirrels often consume a higher percentage of arthropods compared to their tree-dwelling relatives. The inclusion of insects ensures a balanced intake of nutrients, supplementing the carbohydrates and fats derived from plant foods.
The Predominance of Plant Matter
Despite their omnivorous capacity, the vast majority of a squirrel’s diet is composed of plant matter, making them primarily herbivorous in practice. Their foraging efforts focus on high-energy foods that can be stored for later use, especially in preparation for the winter months.
Nuts and seeds are the most well-known components, with acorns, walnuts, hickory nuts, and pine nuts being favored items. Beyond nuts, squirrels consume a wide variety of other plant materials that become available seasonally. This includes fruits and berries in the summer, such as apples and blackberries, which provide sugars and carbohydrates.
They also rely on tree-based foods like buds, flowers, and the inner bark layer, known as the cambium, particularly when other sources are scarce in winter and early spring. Fungi, including various mushrooms and truffles, are another significant component of their diet, offering vitamins and minerals. While insects provide a targeted protein supplement, the bulk of a squirrel’s caloric intake comes from these diverse plant and fungal sources.