Yes, squirrels are omnivores that eat animal and plant materials, including tomatoes. Squirrels will eat tomatoes from the vine, rotten tomatoes, and even whole tomatoes. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins for squirrels, and they also provide them with many other nutrients they need to stay healthy.
Tomatoes for Squirrels
Tomatoes on the Vine
Squirrels prefer to eat tomatoes when they are ripened and off the plant, but they also eat tomatoes on the vine. So if you see a squirrel eating a tomato, it’s probably because it has gotten into somebody’s garden and can’t get out.
Rotten Tomatoes
Squirrels don’t love rotten tomatoes, but they may eat them. So if you see a squirrel eating a ripe or overripe tomato, don’t be alarmed – they seem to enjoy them that way!
Whole Tomatoes
Squirrels will eat the whole tomato, including the skin and all! So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your tomatoes safe from squirrels, keep them well-covered.
Squirrels Eating Tomatoes
How Squirrels Eat Tomatoes
Squirrels extract the seeds by chewing on them and then swallow them whole. The squirrel’s stomach acids break down the seed coat and release the nutrients inside.
Why Squirrels Eat Tomatoes
Squirrels see tomatoes as a nut-like food item, and they will go to great lengths to get their hands on a tomato plant. If you see squirrels eating tomatoes, don’t be alarmed – they may be looking for food to tide them over until winter.
Tomatoes taste sweet, so squirrels can’t help but raid the garden for a delicious snack. Usually, when squirrels find a ripe tomato, they will take it down to their dens to get some lunch.
How Many Tomatoes a Squirrel Will Eat
A squirrel will eat a few tomatoes, so don’t worry if your tomato crop decreases this year. If you notice damage or theft at night when the squirrel is in the area – it’s probably looking for food!
In summary, don’t worry about squirrels eating your tomatoes, and make sure you have plenty of other food options available to them if they decide to nibble on your plants.
Are Tomatoes Harmful to Squirrels?
Tomatoes are not harmful to squirrels, but they may eat them if they find them during the day. Make sure any fruit trees around your property are well-hidden so that your pesky little friend can’t get too close!
If you want to keep your squirrel safe from eating tomatoes, place them in a bird feeder or hide them away in an area where the squirrel cannot reach them.
How to Keep Squirrels Away From Tomato Plants
For gardeners, one way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is to ensure that squirrels can eat no food scraps lying around. You can also set traps with peanut butter or suet as bait and place them around the plant area.
Another option is to put bird feeders near the tomatoes so they will be attracted to other foods instead of fruit. If you do encounter a squirrel in your garden, don’t panic. Instead, take a few simple steps to eliminate them and keep your tomato plants safe.
Hot Pepper Spray
One way to get squirrels to stop is by using hot pepper spray. The capsaicin in peppers can cause a painful burning sensation if it comes into contact with the skin. Make sure to store your spray in a safe place away from children and pets, and use it practically – spraying squirrels directly in their faces or noses is not recommended.
Alternative Food Source
You can try using birdfeeders or putting out water dishes with cut-up fruit to attract hungry critters. If squirrels are eating your tomatoes, try cutting off the bottom, so it’s flat and placing it on a wire rack in your garden to feed the squirrels.
Owl Sculptures
The best way to keep your tomato plants safe from squirrels is by planting them in containers or using deterrents like scarecrows or owls. Keep an eye out for the critters and take appropriate measures if they start to consume your crops!
Fencing and Cages
One solution is to fence off an area of your garden with wire mesh or a cage. This will help to keep the squirrels out and protect your plants. You may use wire mesh or wood panels for your fence – make sure it is high enough so the squirrels can’t jump over it. You can also install spikes at the top of your garden to keep them from climbing.
Sprinklers
Use sprinklers to keep squirrels away from your fruit trees and vegetables. This will help keep your tomatoes safe from these pesky creatures.
Plant Extras
To help keep squirrels at bay, plant extra vegetables around the garden. This will provide them with plenty of nutrients and moisture and may even deter them from eating your tomatoes.
Try planting kale or collard greens if you have squirrels in your garden. They are both high in nutrients and will keep the squirrels at bay.
Additionally, ensure to water plants well throughout the summer, so they have enough reserves to draw upon during dry periods. Finally, you may install a birdfeeder to provide fresh food and entertainment for the squirrels while protecting your crops.
