Squirrels can eat coconut and readily consume it when available. While the coconut palm is not a native food source for most species outside of tropical regions, squirrels are highly opportunistic feeders with a wide-ranging diet. Their natural curiosity and powerful adaptations allow them to exploit this food source, particularly when it is offered by humans or when they inhabit coconut-growing areas.
Overcoming the Hard Exterior
Accessing the nutrient-dense inner flesh of a whole coconut presents a significant physical challenge. Squirrels are rodents with incisor teeth that grow continuously throughout their lives, which they use to gnaw on hard materials like nuts and shells. This powerful gnawing mechanism allows them to breach the thick, fibrous husk and the hard inner shell of the coconut. While wild squirrels in tropical areas can chew entry holes into attached coconuts, the effort required is substantial. Squirrels are more likely to consume the meat when the tough exterior has already been cracked open or when they find pre-exposed pieces.
What Parts of the Coconut Are Eaten
Once a squirrel gains access, they primarily consume the white inner flesh, known as the copra. This part of the coconut is rich in oils and provides a concentrated source of energy. Squirrels often prioritize this high-fat meat, sometimes choosing it over traditional nuts. In tropical areas, squirrels have also been observed drinking the liquid endosperm, or coconut water, found inside young coconuts. The tough, fibrous husk surrounding the coconut is generally not consumed for nutrition, though squirrels may manipulate it while gnawing to reach the inner shell.
Nutritional Impact on Squirrels
Coconut meat provides a high-energy boost due to its high fat content, which is especially beneficial for squirrels during colder months or periods of high activity. However, coconut is not a naturally balanced part of their diet. The high concentration of saturated fats and oils can pose a risk if consumed excessively. Overconsumption often leads to digestive upset, resulting in loose stools or diarrhea. Coconut should only be offered sparingly, serving as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple. Furthermore, processed versions, such as sweetened coconut flakes or chips, must be avoided entirely due to added sugars and preservatives.