Rapid Fire
Meat- Eating Squirrels
- 24 Dec 2024
- 2 min read
A study led by the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (US) has discovered that California ground squirrels (Otospermophilus beecheyi), previously considered herbivores, exhibit opportunistic omnivorous behavior.
- Researchers observed the squirrels hunting, killing, and eating voles (rodents), with 42% of 74 interactions involving active hunting.
- The squirrels' carnivorous behavior peaked in early July, coinciding with a surge in vole numbers, indicating their hunting was triggered by an abundance of prey.
- It revealed that squirrels' diets are more flexible than previously believed, helping them adapt to changes in food availability and survive in rapidly changing environments.
- California Ground Squirrels:
- It is also known as the Beechey ground squirrel and commonly found in western US.
- They have mottled fur, with gray, light and dark brown, and white present in their pelage.
- They are commonly preyed upon by rattlesnakes, eagles, raccoons, foxes, badgers, and weasels and can live up to 6 years in the wild.
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern
- CITES: No special status
- The Indian palm squirrel (Funambulus palmarum) is commonly found in India and Sri Lanka.
Read More: Malayan Giant Squirrel
