A recent study published in the Journal of Ethology revealed surprising predatory behaviour in California ground squirrels, previously thought to be harmless nut collectors.
Researchers observed squirrels actively hunting and devouring voles at Briones Regional Park in California during the summer. Between June and July, 42 per cent of 74 interactions between squirrels and voles involved active predation.
The study, led by Jennifer E. Smith, associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, confirmed that hunting is a common behaviour among squirrels. Observations showed squirrels crouching to ambush prey or chasing and pouncing on voles before delivering a fatal neck bite.
Sonja Wild, a co-author and postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, Davis, initially doubted the reports from undergraduate students but later witnessed the behaviour herself.
The carnivorous activity peaked in early July, coinciding with a vole population surge reported on the iNaturalist app. While some squirrel species are known to consume meat opportunistically, this study provided the first evidence of widespread active hunting.
The findings highlighted the adaptability of wildlife to environmental changes, with researchers drawing parallels to other animals like raccoons and hyenas adapting their strategies.
