What is the purpose of Xerus squirrels caching surplus seeds or provisions in their burrow systems?
Answer
To smooth out day-to-day nutritional intake across varying conditions
Caching is a critical adaptation for resource stability. By storing surplus provisions gathered during successful foraging trips within their secure burrow systems, Xerus squirrels create a buffer against unpredictable conditions. This behavior ensures that they have nutritional support available for subsequent days when external foraging might be impossible due to weather (like rainy days), or when they need to remain underground for safety from predators or for necessary thermoregulation purposes. It stabilizes their energy intake over time.
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