What describes the general foraging nature of tree squirrels regarding their palate, influencing their attraction to gardens?
Answer
They are omnivorous and opportunistic, guided by availability and immediate need.
Tree squirrels are characterized by their broad and flexible diet, defined by their status as omnivorous and opportunistic foragers. This means their consumption habits are not governed by strict dietary rules but are heavily influenced by what resources are available in their immediate environment and what they perceive as meeting an immediate need for energy or sustenance. Their diet can span nuts, seeds, fruit, insects, bird eggs, and even carrion when necessary, which explains why they might sample an unexpected plant like an aster if other preferred foods are scarce or if they are driven by the instinct to dig in loose soil.

Related Questions
Which underground storage organs do squirrels show a strong preference for raiding in gardens?What role do Asters, black-eyed Susans, and coneflowers serve near vulnerable crops?If an aster is yanked out sideways with scattered soil, what is the primary cause of the damage?What physical method is recommended for protecting small, newly established asters from burrowing damage?Why is cayenne pepper effective as a selective deterrent against squirrels near asters?What describes the general foraging nature of tree squirrels regarding their palate, influencing their attraction to gardens?What specific precaution must be taken when applying capsaicin-based sprays to aster foliage?What materials can be applied as soil topping to frustrate squirrels attempting to dig near newly planted asters?What is the potential risk associated with dedicating a separate area to offering corn or sunflower seeds to squirrels?Which group of herbs is noted as being left alone by some ground squirrels, similar to the general avoidance of Asters?If observers note squirrels stripping leaves off violets without consuming them, what behavior is suggested?