Why Do Squirrels Chew on Deer Antlers? The Unlikely Snack
Squirrels chew on deer antlers primarily for the essential minerals they contain, especially calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for bone and tooth health. This behavior is particularly prevalent when other mineral sources are scarce.
The Unexpected Nutritional Needs of Squirrels
While squirrels are often depicted as primarily eating nuts and seeds, their diet is surprisingly diverse. They require a variety of nutrients to maintain their health, and sometimes their usual food sources don’t provide enough of everything they need. This is where deer antlers enter the picture. Understanding why do squirrels chew on deer antlers? starts with understanding their nutritional needs.
The Mineral Goldmine of Deer Antlers
Deer antlers are composed largely of calcium and phosphorus, the very building blocks of bone. These minerals are vital for:
- Bone growth and maintenance
- Tooth development and strength
- Neurological function
- Muscle function
When squirrels are deficient in these minerals, they instinctively seek out alternative sources, and shed deer antlers become a readily available and surprisingly appealing option.
The Chewing Process: More Than Just a Snack
Squirrels don’t simply swallow large chunks of antler. Instead, they gnaw and chew, gradually scraping off small pieces. This allows them to ingest the minerals slowly and efficiently. The process also helps keep their teeth sharp, as the hard antler material provides a natural abrasive action.
Seasonal Variations in Antler Consumption
The frequency of squirrels chewing on deer antlers can vary depending on the season. It tends to increase in the spring and summer when squirrels are actively raising young and have higher mineral demands. Also, in areas where soil mineral content is lower, the drive to seek out antlers is intensified.
Identifying Antler Chewing: Signs to Look For
If you suspect squirrels are chewing on deer antlers in your area, you can look for specific signs:
- Gnaw marks: Look for small, parallel grooves and scratches on the surface of the antlers.
- Small fragments: You may find tiny pieces of antler scattered around the base of the antler.
- Squirrel sightings: Observe squirrels actively chewing on antlers in your yard or nearby areas.
Competition and Other Factors Influencing Consumption
Squirrels aren’t the only animals that seek out deer antlers. Other rodents, such as mice and voles, may also nibble on them. The presence of competing animals, the availability of other mineral sources, and the overall health of the squirrel population can all influence how much antler chewing occurs.
Here’s a table summarizing the key factors:
| Factor | Influence on Antler Chewing |
|---|---|
| ———————– | ——————————– |
| Mineral Deficiency | Increases chewing |
| Season (Spring/Summer) | Increases chewing |
| Competition | Decreases chewing |
| Availability of Alternatives | Decreases chewing |
The Broader Ecological Role
Why do squirrels chew on deer antlers? Understanding that the action plays a role in nutrient cycling within the ecosystem. By breaking down the antlers, squirrels help release minerals back into the soil, making them available to plants and other animals.
What to Do If You Find a Squirrel Chewing on an Antler
Generally, there’s no need to intervene if you see a squirrel chewing on a deer antler. It’s a natural behavior that provides them with essential nutrients. Avoid approaching or startling the squirrel, as this could stress the animal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels and Deer Antlers
Why are calcium and phosphorus so important for squirrels?
Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals for maintaining the skeletal structure of a squirrel. They support bone strength and growth and are also needed for other bodily functions such as muscle contraction and nerve transmission.
Do squirrels only chew on shed deer antlers, or do they also chew on antlers still attached to deer?
Squirrels almost exclusively chew on shed deer antlers. It’s extremely rare for them to bother antlers still attached to deer, as the risk of getting injured is too high. Shed antlers are a safe and readily accessible mineral source.
Is antler chewing harmful to squirrels?
No, antler chewing is generally not harmful to squirrels. The antlers are a natural and safe source of minerals. However, it’s important that antlers be from wild deer only, and not products meant for pets, that may contain additives.
Can I provide antlers to squirrels in my yard?
You can provide shed deer antlers to squirrels in your yard, but it’s important to source them responsibly. Ensure they are naturally shed antlers and not treated with any chemicals or additives.
Are there other animals besides squirrels that chew on deer antlers?
Yes, other animals besides squirrels also chew on deer antlers. These include mice, voles, porcupines and even dogs. They are all seeking out the same essential minerals.
Does the size of the antler affect how much squirrels chew on it?
Yes, the size of the antler can influence how much squirrels chew on it. Larger antlers offer a more substantial mineral reserve and can sustain chewing for a longer period. Also, larger antlers can be easier for them to gnaw on than smaller, broken pieces.
How can I tell the difference between squirrel and deer gnaw marks?
Squirrel gnaw marks are typically smaller and more precise than those made by deer. They often appear as parallel grooves and scratches created by the squirrel’s incisors. Deer gnaw marks are much larger and rougher.
Does antler chewing affect the health of a squirrel population?
Yes, antler chewing can positively affect the health of a squirrel population, especially in areas where mineral deficiencies are common. It provides a crucial supplementary mineral source that supports bone health and overall well-being.
What other sources of calcium and phosphorus do squirrels rely on?
Besides deer antlers, squirrels also obtain calcium and phosphorus from nuts, seeds, fungi, insects, and occasionally bone fragments found in their environment. These sources, however, are not always sufficient, leading them to seek out antlers.
Is there a specific time of year when antler chewing is more common?
Yes, antler chewing is often more common in the spring and summer months. This is when squirrels are actively raising young and have higher nutritional demands. The shedding period for deer antlers is typically late winter/early spring, further adding to the accessability.
Do male and female squirrels chew antlers equally?
While both male and female squirrels chew antlers, pregnant and lactating females may do so more frequently due to their increased mineral requirements for producing milk and supporting their offspring.
Can providing a mineral block be a substitute for deer antlers for squirrels?
Providing a mineral block can be a substitute for deer antlers to some degree. However, natural deer antlers offer a more complete spectrum of minerals and trace elements that might be lacking in some mineral blocks. Always ensure that any mineral blocks provided are safe for wildlife consumption.