Do squirrels eat raw garlic? Well, the answer is yes, they can eat garlic, but it’s not necessarily something they enjoy or seek out as a food source. Squirrels are omnivores, meaning they have a wide-ranging diet that includes both plant material and small amounts of animal matter. While they primarily feed on nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, they may occasionally come across garlic while foraging.
Garlic belongs to the Allium family, which also includes onions, shallots, and chives. These plants contain a compound called allicin, which gives them their distinctive smell and taste. Allicin is known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which is why garlic is often used in human cooking and medicinal purposes. However, this compound can also be toxic to animals in large quantities.
When it comes to squirrels, they are not particularly attracted to the strong smell or taste of garlic. In fact, they may even find it off-putting. Their taste preferences are more inclined towards nuts, seeds, and sweet fruits. So while squirrels may come across garlic or onion bulbs while digging in the ground, they are unlikely to actively seek it out as a food source.
It’s important to note that consuming small amounts of garlic may not have a significant impact on squirrels’ health. Animals that mostly live outdoors, such as squirrels or rabbits, are known to accidentally come across garlic or onion bulbs while digging and may nibble on them out of curiosity. However, it’s best to avoid intentionally feeding garlic or onions to squirrels or any other wildlife, as larger quantities can be harmful.
If you have a garden or backyard where squirrels frequent, it’s a good idea to take precautions to protect your plants from their foraging habits. Squirrels can be quite resourceful when it comes to finding food, and they may try to dig up bulbs or plants that are not to their liking. Using fencing or barriers to protect your garden can help deter squirrels and prevent damage.
While squirrels can eat raw garlic, it is not a preferred or sought-after food for them. They are more inclined to feed on nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. If you come across squirrels nibbling on garlic or onion bulbs, it is likely accidental rather than intentional. It’s best to avoid intentionally feeding garlic or onions to squirrels or any other wildlife and take precautions to protect your garden from their foraging habits.