California Ground Squirrels Caught Eating Meat: A Surprising Discovery
2024-12-21
A recent study has overturned long-held beliefs about California ground squirrels. Previously considered granivores (grain-eaters), researchers observed these common rodents hunting, killing, and consuming voles—small rodents—during the summer of 2024. This surprising discovery highlights the gaps in our understanding of even familiar animals and suggests California ground squirrels may be opportunistic omnivores, adapting their diet based on food availability. The observed carnivorous behavior, peaking when vole populations surged, demonstrates their behavioral flexibility and adaptability to changing environments.