Squirrels are a common sight in wooded areas, known for their varied diets and resourceful foraging. Their constant search for food often leads to questions about what they consume, particularly readily available natural items.
The Definitive Answer: Yes
Squirrels indeed consume pine cones, primarily for the nutrient-rich seeds, often called pine nuts, found within. These seeds are protected by the cone’s hard scales. While squirrels eat various types of pine cones, they prefer green, immature female cones. These younger cones are more tender and easier to deconstruct, holding their seeds securely before natural dispersal. Different squirrel species, including the American red squirrel, fox squirrel, and gray squirrel, incorporate pine cone seeds into their diets.
How Squirrels Deconstruct Pine Cones
The process squirrels use to access pine cone seeds is methodical and precise. A squirrel typically holds the cone with its agile front paws, rotating it while using its incisors to gnaw off the scales. This deconstruction usually begins at the base of the cone and progresses upwards in a spiraling motion, exposing the seeds hidden beneath each scale. As each scale is removed, the squirrel extracts and eats the paired seeds.
This leaves behind a distinctive stripped core resembling a miniature corn cob. Scattered scales and these cores are common evidence found at the base of pine trees, indicating squirrel feeding activity. These remnants can accumulate, forming piles known as middens, especially in areas frequented by red squirrels.
Nutritional Value and Dietary Importance
Pine cone seeds are a valuable food source for squirrels, contributing significantly to their dietary needs. These seeds are concentrated sources of essential fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, providing the high energy required for their active lifestyles. Beyond macronutrients, pine nuts supply various vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, vitamin K, manganese, thiamin, zinc, and phosphorus. The caloric density and nutritional profile of these seeds are important during colder months, as squirrels do not hibernate and must maintain energy reserves. Storing pine cones allows squirrels to secure a consistent food supply when other food sources become scarce. Gnawing through the tough cone scales also helps maintain the proper length and sharpness of their incisors, which grow continuously throughout their lives.