What Trees and Plants Do Squirrels in Florida Eat?

Squirrels are a common sight in Florida, and they can be found in both urban and rural areas. These furry, bushy-tailed critters are known for their agility, intelligence, and quick movements. They are also known for their love of nuts, but their diet is actually quite diverse. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what trees and plants squirrels in Florida eat.

Acorns

Acorns are a popular food choice for squirrels in Florida. These nuts come from oak trees, which are abundant in the state. Squirrels have a keen sense of smell and can easily sniff out the location of an acorn. Once they find one, they will either eat it right away or store it for later. It's not uncommon to see squirrels burying acorns in the ground for safekeeping.

Pine Cones

Another favorite food of squirrels in Florida is pine cones. These spiky seed packets come from pine trees, which are also common in the state. Squirrels will typically climb up the tree and gnaw off the cone, then bring it down to the ground to eat. Pine cones are a good source of protein, fat, and fiber for squirrels.

Berries

Florida is home to a wide variety of berries, and squirrels are known to eat many of them. Some of the most popular berry bushes that squirrels enjoy include blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Squirrels are able to climb up the bushes and pluck the berries off of the branches. They will often eat the berry on the spot or take it to a safe location to store for later.

Seeds

Seeds are another important part of a squirrel's diet. Florida has many types of plants that produce seeds, including sunflowers, corn, and various types of grasses. Squirrels will usually dig up the seeds and eat them right away. They may also store them in a safe location for later consumption.

Fruit

Squirrels in Florida are also known to eat a wide variety of fruit, including oranges, grapefruits, and apples. These fruits provide squirrels with valuable vitamins and minerals. While squirrels can climb trees to reach the fruit, they often rely on fruit that has fallen to the ground.

In Conclusion

As you can see, squirrels in Florida have a diverse diet that includes many types of trees and plants. By understanding what squirrels eat, you can make your yard more squirrel-friendly by planting trees and bushes that they enjoy. Just be wary of their tendency to dig up seedlings and bury nuts in your lawn!