Introduction

Tomato plants, also known as Solanum lycopersicum, are widely cultivated plants that are popular in gardens around the world. While tomato plants are nutritious for humans, they are also a popular food source for a variety of animals. In this article, we will explore the question, "What kind of animal eats tomato plants?"

Squirrels

Squirrels are one of the most common animals that eat tomato plants. These small rodents are known for their love of nuts and seeds, but they are also known to occasionally snack on fruits and vegetables. Squirrels are particularly fond of tomatoes and will often take a bite out of a ripe tomato sitting in a garden or on a windowsill. In addition to eating the fruit, squirrels will also munch on the stems and leaves of tomato plants, which can cause serious damage to the plant.

Raccoons

Raccoons are another animal that enjoys eating tomato plants. These nocturnal animals are omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and plants. While raccoons are more commonly associated with raiding bird feeders or garbage cans, they have been known to cause damage in gardens as well. Raccoons will typically wait until the tomato plants are ripe, at which point they will climb up to the plant and take a large bite out of the fruit. They may also damage the stem and leaves of the plant in the process.

Deer

Deer are herbivores that typically eat grasses, shrubs, and leaves. However, they have been known to occasionally snack on tomato plants as well. This is more likely to occur in areas where deer are common and have limited access to other food sources. A hungry deer may wander into a garden and take a few bites out of a tomato plant, leaving the rest of the plant intact. However, if a deer finds a particularly tasty plant, it may cause significant damage to the stem and leaves.

Groundhogs

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are herbivores that are closely related to squirrels. These small mammals are known for their love of vegetables and will often raid gardens in search of tasty treats. Tomato plants are one of their favorite foods, and they will not hesitate to munch on the ripe fruit, stems, and leaves of the plant if given the chance. Groundhogs can cause significant damage to a garden if left unchecked since they are known to eat large quantities of plants in a short amount of time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several animals that eat tomato plants, including squirrels, raccoons, deer, and groundhogs. While it can be frustrating to see your hard work in the garden decimated by wildlife, it is important to remember that these animals are just trying to survive. To protect your tomato plants, try using fencing, netting, or other barriers to keep animals out, or consider planting a few extra plants to share with your furry friends.