Do Squirrels Eat Citrus Fruit? A Definitive Guide
While some squirrels might nibble on citrus in desperate times, the answer to “Do squirrels eat citrus fruit?” is generally no. Most squirrels find the acidity and strong oils in citrus fruit unpalatable and prefer other food sources.
Squirrel Dietary Preferences: Beyond Acorns
Squirrels are opportunistic eaters with a diet that varies depending on their geographic location and the availability of food. While many associate squirrels primarily with acorns, their diet is much more diverse. They consume nuts, seeds, fungi, insects, and even occasionally small birds or eggs. Understanding their preferences is key to understanding why citrus typically isn’t on the menu.
The Citrus Aversion: Why Squirrels Usually Avoid Oranges, Lemons, and Grapefruit
Several factors contribute to squirrels’ general aversion to citrus fruit:
- Acidity: Citrus fruits are known for their high acidity levels. This acidity can be irritating to a squirrel’s mouth and digestive system.
- Strong Oils: The peels of citrus fruits contain essential oils that have a strong, pungent smell and taste. These oils often act as a natural deterrent to many animals, including squirrels.
- Nutritional Value (for Squirrels): While citrus fruits provide vitamins for humans, they don’t offer the high caloric content and fat that squirrels need, especially during the colder months when they are preparing for winter.
Exceptions to the Rule: Circumstances Where Squirrels Might Eat Citrus
Despite the general aversion, there are instances where a squirrel might resort to eating citrus fruit:
- Desperation: In times of scarcity, especially during harsh winters or periods of drought, squirrels may consume citrus fruit if other food sources are unavailable.
- Habituation: Squirrels that live in areas with an abundance of citrus trees and a lack of other food options may become accustomed to eating small amounts of citrus.
- Individual Preferences: Just like humans, squirrels have individual tastes. Some squirrels might simply find citrus fruit more palatable than others.
- Thirst: Squirrels may attempt to access the juice of the citrus to quench their thirst when fresh water sources are scarce.
Citrus Peels as a Squirrel Deterrent: A Common Gardening Practice
Gardeners often utilize citrus peels as a natural deterrent to keep squirrels away from their gardens. The strong smell and taste of the oils in the peels are usually effective in repelling squirrels from flower beds, vegetable patches, and fruit trees (excluding citrus, of course!). This approach is far more humane than using traps or poisons.
Protecting Your Citrus Trees: Strategies for Safeguarding Your Harvest
If you’re concerned about squirrels eating your citrus fruits, consider these preventative measures:
- Netting: Cover your citrus trees with netting to physically prevent squirrels from accessing the fruit.
- Squirrel-Proof Feeders: Provide squirrels with alternative food sources, such as nuts and seeds, in a squirrel-proof feeder away from your citrus trees. This can distract them from your crop.
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Install motion-activated sprinklers near your citrus trees. The sudden spray of water will startle squirrels and deter them from the area.
- Natural Repellents: Use natural squirrel repellents, such as cayenne pepper or garlic spray, around your citrus trees. Be careful not to spray the fruit directly.
Are Citrus Fruits Poisonous to Squirrels?
Citrus fruit is not poisonous to squirrels, but its acidity and oils may cause stomach upset or irritation if consumed in large quantities.
Comparing Squirrel Preferences: A Quick Reference Table
| Food Source | Squirrel Preference | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| —————– | ——————- | —————————————————————– |
| Acorns | High | High in calories and fats; easily storable. |
| Nuts (Walnuts, etc.) | High | High in calories and fats; provide essential nutrients. |
| Seeds | Medium | Good source of energy and protein. |
| Fungi | Medium | Provides essential nutrients; varied dietary component. |
| Citrus Fruits | Low | High acidity; strong oils; lower caloric value for squirrels. |
| Insects | Low (occasional) | Source of protein, but not a primary food source. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will squirrels eat oranges?
While not their preferred choice, squirrels might eat oranges, especially if other food sources are limited. The acidity and oils in oranges are usually a deterrent, but a hungry squirrel may try anything.
Do squirrels eat lemons?
Lemons are generally less appealing to squirrels due to their high acidity and intense flavor. It’s unlikely that squirrels will actively seek out lemons as a food source.
Are grapefruits appealing to squirrels?
Like oranges and lemons, grapefruits’ bitter taste and high acidity make them less desirable for squirrels. Squirrels will typically avoid grapefruit if other options are available.
What kind of fruit do squirrels prefer?
Squirrels tend to prefer sweeter fruits such as berries, apples, and grapes, which are easier to digest and provide quick energy.
Can squirrels get sick from eating citrus fruits?
While citrus isn’t poisonous to squirrels, consuming large quantities can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, or irritation in their mouths.
How can I protect my citrus trees from squirrels?
Effective methods include using netting, motion-activated sprinklers, squirrel-proof feeders with alternative food, and natural repellents like cayenne pepper around the base of the trees, but not on the fruit.
Will squirrels eat citrus peels?
Squirrels are more likely to nibble on citrus peels out of curiosity or desperation, but they typically won’t consume large quantities due to the strong oils. Citrus peels are actually used as a deterrent.
Do all types of squirrels react the same way to citrus?
While most squirrel species share similar dietary preferences, individual squirrels may exhibit different behaviors. Some squirrels might be more tolerant of citrus than others.
Are there any nutritional benefits for squirrels in citrus fruit?
Citrus fruit does provide some vitamins, but squirrels primarily need calories and fats from nuts and seeds for energy and survival, especially during colder months. Citrus doesn’t offer much in the way of those needs.
Will offering squirrels other foods deter them from eating my citrus?
Providing a consistent supply of alternative food sources, such as nuts and seeds in a squirrel-proof feeder, can significantly reduce the likelihood of squirrels targeting your citrus trees.
Are there other animals besides squirrels that dislike citrus?
Yes, many animals, including cats, dogs, and deer, tend to avoid citrus due to its strong smell and taste.
Is it cruel to use citrus peels as a squirrel deterrent?
Using citrus peels as a deterrent is generally considered a humane approach, as it simply discourages squirrels from entering an area without causing them any harm.