For the first time ever, scientists have spotted Californian ground squirrels engaging in flesh-eating behavior, chasing down and devouring voles in the wild. Until now, these rodents were believed to be primarily vegetarian, feeding on seeds and nuts.
Researchers at Briones Regional Park in Contra Costa County observed 74 interactions between squirrels and voles between June and July, with 42% of those encounters involving active hunting. The study, published in the Journal of Ethology, sheds new light on the complex dietary habits of these animals.
Experts say that this discovery fundamentally changes our understanding of squirrels, which were previously thought to be primarily herbivores. Squirrels are known for their ability to adapt to changing environments, but this behavior suggests they can also respond to changes in food availability.
“We had never seen this behavior before,” said Dr. Jennifer Smith, a squirrel expert at the University of Wisconsin. “It’s shocking that we missed it for so long.”
The study’s findings have sparked debate about the widespread occurrence of hunting behavior among squirrels and its potential impact on their environment. Further research is needed to determine how this behavior affects reproduction and survival.
The discovery highlights the importance of continued research into the natural world, revealing that even the most familiar animals can surprise us with new behaviors.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/squirrels-spotted-hunting-eating-animals-173434592.html