Squirrels are known for their curious nature and diverse diet, often causing concern for those who grow fruit trees. Yes, squirrels do eat plums off trees, and they may even prefer them because of their sweet taste. If you have a plum tree in your yard, it’s important to understand how these little creatures can impact your harvest.
You might wonder if there are ways to protect your plums from being raided. Squirrels are clever and agile, making it a challenge to keep them at bay. Learning about their feeding habits can help you devise effective strategies to safeguard your fruit trees and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior and Diet
Squirrels have unique behaviors and preferences when it comes to food. They often visit fruit trees, searching for tasty treats like plums and other fruits. You might find their eating habits interesting, along with the skills they use to get their food.
Squirrels and Fruit Trees
Squirrels are known to visit various fruit trees in search of delicious snacks. They love fruits such as plums, apples, pears, and even persimmons. When the fruit is ripe, squirrels can be seen climbing branches and nibbling away.
These furry creatures can eat both fresh fruit and those that have fallen to the ground. Even slightly fermented fruits are a favorite. If you have fruit trees, you might notice squirrels frequently checking for snacks.
Diet Preferences of Squirrels
A squirrel’s diet mainly consists of nuts, seeds, and fruits. Their taste can vary by season, but they enjoy a variety of options. In addition to fruits, they often munch on berries and nuts.
Squirrels have a special liking for acorns, walnuts, and citrus fruits. They also enjoy foraging for food, making them skilled gardeners in a way. You might find them storing extra food for later, which shows their nurturing side.
Climbing Skills and Foraging Techniques
Squirrels are exceptional climbers. Their sharp claws help them grip tree trunks and branches, allowing them to move quickly while seeking food. This agility helps them evade predators and gather snacks.
When foraging, squirrels use their keen eyesight to spot ripe fruit. They often jump from branch to branch with ease, making it look effortless. As they climb, they are not just searching for food; they also prepare nests using leaves and twigs. This talent for climbing makes them efficient in their search for plums and other tasty treats.
Protecting Your Plums and Other Fruit Trees
Keeping squirrels away from your plum and other fruit trees is important to ensure a good harvest. Thankfully, there are many methods you can use to protect your trees. This section will cover effective deterrents, physical barriers, and natural solutions to keep these pesky critters at bay.
Effective Deterrents and Repellents
Using squirrel repellents can help you protect your fruit trees. Look for sprays containing capsaicin, which is found in hot peppers. You can create your own mix by combining cayenne pepper with water and a bit of dish soap for adhesion.
Peppermint oil and garlic are also effective natural squirrel deterrents. Spraying them around your trees can help keep squirrels away due to their strong scents. For a quick fix, consider using commercial repellents like Ro-Pel, which are designed to deter squirrels.
Physical Barriers and Gardening Tips
Physical barriers are one of the best ways to keep squirrels off your trees. Installing a metal collar around the trunk of your plum trees can stop squirrels from climbing up. Aim for a collar about 2 feet wide to cover the main area.
Using netting is another effective option. Drape netting over your fruit trees to create a barrier against squirrels. Make sure the netting is secure to prevent them from getting inside. Pruning lower branches can also help by removing access points for squirrels.
Natural and Commercial Solutions to Protect Your Fruit
In addition to barriers and sprays, you can try other natural solutions. Planting rue around your garden may deter squirrels, as they dislike its scent. Additionally, consider using commercial squirrel baffles, which can be placed on poles or trees to make climbing more difficult.
Scare tactics may help too. Hanging reflective tape or using motion-activated lights can frighten squirrels or make them feel unsafe. Just remember to stay vigilant and reapply any deterrents regularly to keep your harvest safe from these little invaders.
