Cherries are a popular fruit, and their presence also holds significant appeal in natural environments. These stone fruits attract a variety of creatures. Their seasonal availability makes them a sought-after resource for many species.
Common Cherry Eaters
A diverse range of animals consumes cherries. Among birds, species such as robins, cedar waxwings, thrushes, woodpeckers, sparrows, bluebirds, tanagers, and orioles feed on cherries. Starlings, blackbirds, blackcaps, and garden warblers also partake, often swallowing the fruits whole or pecking at the pulp.
Mammals are also prominent cherry eaters. Deer, rabbits, badgers, possums, raccoons, squirrels, chipmunks, and mice include cherries in their diets. Black bears consume cherry fruit, sometimes eating large quantities. Smaller mammals like hedgehogs, mustelids, and foxes also feed on cherries, often gathering fallen fruit from the ground. Certain insects, such as ants, are drawn to cherries, while cherry fruit flies lay eggs on the fruit, with their larvae consuming the interior.
Why Animals Seek Cherries
Animals are drawn to cherries for several reasons, primarily their nutritional content. Cherries offer a good source of energy due to their sugar content. They also provide beneficial components such as vitamins A and C, along with fiber and antioxidants. This makes them a valuable and palatable food source.
The seasonal availability of cherries further enhances their appeal. They become a readily accessible food option during specific times of the year, which can be particularly important when other food sources may be less abundant. Their sweet flavor and juicy texture contribute to their desirability for many species.
The Role of Animals in Cherry Seed Dispersal
The consumption of cherries by animals plays a significant role in seed dispersal. This process, known as endozoochory, involves animals ingesting the fruit and later expelling the seeds. Birds and mammals are particularly effective in this biological exchange.
As seeds pass through an animal’s digestive tract, their hard outer coverings remain intact, protecting the embryo within. This movement away from the parent tree helps reduce competition for resources and facilitates the growth of new cherry trees. In some instances, passage through the digestive system can even help prepare the seed for germination. Research indicates that a high percentage of cherry seeds found in mammal droppings remain viable, highlighting the effectiveness of this natural dispersal mechanism.
Are Cherry Pits Harmful to Animals
Cherry pits, along with stems and leaves, contain cyanogenic glycosides, specifically amygdalin. When these parts are chewed, crushed, or metabolized, amygdalin can convert into hydrogen cyanide, a toxic substance. The fleshy part of a ripe cherry, however, is suitable for consumption in small quantities.
If an animal swallows a whole cherry pit, it is not problematic, as the hard shell prevents the release of cyanide, and the pit passes through the digestive system without breaking down. However, if pits are chewed or crushed, toxins can be released. The amount of cyanide can vary, and consuming a large quantity of chewed pits can be harmful, especially for smaller animals or household pets. Cherry pits also pose a physical risk of intestinal blockage, particularly for smaller animals.
Protecting Your Cherries from Animals
To protect cherry harvests from animal consumption, several methods can be employed. Netting is an effective strategy for shielding cherry trees from birds and creatures like bats and possums. This creates a physical barrier that proves more effective than deterrents relying on scaring animals. For optimal protection, netting should be securely fastened around the tree trunk to prevent access from below.
Fencing can be an effective measure against larger animals such as deer, rabbits, and kangaroos, with height and mesh size being important considerations. Installing tree guards around trunks can also prevent climbing animals, like squirrels, from reaching the fruit. Scare devices, including reflective materials or objects that produce noise, can offer some deterrent effect, though animals may adapt over time. Harvesting ripe fruit promptly can also help minimize losses to wildlife. Understanding local wildlife behaviors is beneficial for selecting appropriate protection strategies.