If you’ve ever seen a squirrel near a bird’s nest, you might wonder, do squirrels eat bird eggs? While squirrels are mostly known for munching on nuts and seeds, they are surprisingly resourceful and sometimes eat eggs when food is limited. This behaviour isn’t as rare as you might think, especially during the breeding season when squirrels need extra nutrition.
Why Do Squirrels Eat Bird Eggs?
Yes, do squirrels eat bird eggs? Is this a valid question because squirrels are opportunistic feeders? When other food sources are hard to find, they might climb trees and raid bird nests for eggs. The protein in eggs helps support their energy, especially when raising their own babies. This behaviour is not just limited to wild environments. Squirrels in backyards or parks may also target bird nests if they find easy access.
It’s also worth noting that red squirrels eat bird eggs has been confirmed through wildlife observations. Red squirrels are agile climbers and are known to invade nests, especially those of songbirds.
Do Squirrels Eat Apples Off Trees?
Many people are surprised to learn that squirrels love fruit. Do squirrels eat apples off trees? Yes, they do. When apples ripen, squirrels often nibble them right off the branches. Fruit provides natural sugar and moisture, making it an excellent energy source for them.
How Different Squirrels Behave Around Bird Nests
Just like red squirrels, do grey squirrels eat bird eggs is also something that has been noticed by wildlife experts. Grey squirrels are not picky when it comes to food, and they’ll take eggs if they come across a vulnerable nest.
In fact, people often ask, do squirrels eat the eggs of birds, or is it just a myth? The truth is, while it’s not their main diet, they do eat eggs if it benefits their survival. It’s more common in the spring and early summer when both food needs and bird nests are at their peak.
In the same way that eggs can become a part of their occasional meals, do squirrels eat birds? Though it sounds extreme, some squirrels have been observed preying on baby birds, especially in times of hunger or competition.
Squirrels Eat More Than You Think
Squirrels are highly adaptable animals. Most of us know them for cracking nuts and chewing through seeds, but their diet can include much more. In some rare cases, do squirrels eat meat has been answered with a surprising yes. They may consume small insects or even carrion when they’re desperate for protein.
Understanding what they eat can help homeowners better protect bird nests and feeders. If you’re feeding birds in your backyard, make sure to install squirrel-proof setups. This keeps both your birds and their eggs safer.
What Else Do Squirrels Like to Eat?
It’s always good to understand what squirrels like to eat to better manage your garden or outdoor space. Their usual diet includes nuts, seeds, buds, berries, and even bark. However, during nesting seasons, when squirrels need more energy, they might target things they don’t usually eat—like bird eggs.
By trimming branches and placing feeders strategically, you can reduce the chances of squirrels getting too close to nesting areas.
Final Thoughts: Do Squirrels Really Eat Bird Eggs?
So, do squirrels eat bird eggs? Yes, they do—especially when food is scarce or when they’re caring for young. Both red and grey squirrels have been observed raiding nests. Though it might seem shocking, this behaviour is part of how they survive. If you want to keep both squirrels and birds in your yard safely, be aware of their habits and plan your outdoor space with care.
