Corn, a widely cultivated global crop, is a significant food source for many wild animals. Its widespread availability, especially in agricultural areas, makes it accessible to diverse species. Animals consume corn from fields, suburban gardens, and bird feeders.
Common Corn-Eating Mammals
White-tailed deer commonly consume corn, often raiding agricultural fields. They readily eat large quantities, often overnight. While corn is a high-energy source, a diet solely of corn can lead to digestive issues like acidosis, especially if their system is unaccustomed to it.
Raccoons, clever omnivores, frequently target corn crops, stripping kernels from ears with their dexterous paws. They often raid sweet corn, climbing stalks and damaging plants. Squirrels also consume corn, focusing on the germ for its lipids and proteins. They often eat corn when abundant in the fall.
Bears are attracted to corn as an easily accessible food source. Rodents like mice and rats also consume corn kernels for energy. Groundhogs can also damage corn crops in gardens and fields. Eastern cottontail rabbits also eat corn.
Common Corn-Eating Birds
Wild turkeys frequently visit cornfields, gleaning spilled corn after harvest or consuming it directly. Pheasants also eat corn, including waste corn and newly planted seeds. Cracked corn supplements pheasants, providing an energy boost in cold weather.
Duck species, including mallards, eat corn for energy, vitamins, and minerals. Though calorie-dense, it should be fed in moderation. Crows are opportunistic birds that consume corn, pecking at ripe kernels in cornfields. They can cause significant damage, especially during corn development.
Blackbirds, such as red-winged blackbirds and grackles, consume corn, especially sweet corn. They feed on developing ears, causing extensive crop damage. Smaller birds like sparrows and finches are attracted to cracked corn in bird feeders or on the ground. Doves and quails also eat cracked corn, often feeding on the ground.
The Allure of Corn for Wildlife
Corn attracts wildlife due to its nutritional composition and widespread availability. Rich in carbohydrates, it provides substantial energy. This energy is valuable during high metabolic demand, such as migration, breeding, or colder months when other food sources are scarce.
Its accessibility in agricultural areas, suburban gardens, and bird feeders makes it an easy target. Its palatable taste, especially sweet corn, also attracts many animals. The combination of high energy, readily available nutrients, and widespread presence makes corn a preferred food choice for a diverse array of wild animals.