Do Squirrels Eat Mushrooms? A Comprehensive Guide

Squirrels are known for their diverse diets, which include nuts, seeds, fruits, and fungi. While it's not exclusive to particular squirrel species, many squirrels do eat mushrooms. This guide explores the reasons why squirrels consume mushrooms, their dietary habits, and special considerations when it comes to foraging.

General Squirrel Diet and Mushroom Consumption

Squirrels are omnivores, which means their diet is varied and flexible. While an array of food sources is available, various squirrel species may have different preferences. Those living in dense forests and woodland areas often come across fungi and lichen. Some squirrels, such as the northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus), rely more on fungi and lichen for their diet, while others, like the southern flying squirrels (Glaucomys volans), prefer nuts more.

Interestingly, other rodent species like jumping mice also enjoy fungi. The woodland jumping mouse (Napaeozapus insignis) is known to consume fungi along with other food sources. These observations suggest that fungi are a significant part of diverse woodland ecosystems.

Observations of Squirrel Mushroom Consumption

Many mushroom foragers report observing squirrels eating mushrooms. For instance, when inspecting a mushroom growing on tree bark several feet off the ground, one can often find nibble marks that resemble a rodent's work, most likely that of a squirrel. While not all squirrel species actively seek out mushrooms, they will consume them when available, especially among those that form part of their natural habitat.

Health Considerations

It's important to highlight that not all mushrooms are safe for squirrels to consume, as some can be toxic. Similar to how they would avoid harmful mushrooms, squirrels have the innate ability to recognize and avoid these toxic varieties. However, recreational mushroom foragers should take caution when finding mushrooms with small nibbles. These bites might indicate that a squirrel has attempted to eat the fungus, and while it doesn't mean the mushroom is toxic, it's still better to err on the side of caution. Some foraging manuals suggest that if a mushroom has small bites removed, it's probably safe to slice around the nibbled parts to ensure edible portions.

Myth and Cultural References

While the title of an interesting Dutch mushroom, eekhoornjesbrood (squirrel's bread), might sound intriguing, it's crucial to differentiate between psychedelic mushrooms and their edible counterparts. This term in Dutch refers to a specific variety of edible mushrooms, but it may lead to confusion if not clarified. It's always wise to identify mushrooms correctly and remember that not all wild mushrooms are safe to consume, especially when they have shown signs of being nibbled by squirrels or other foraging animals.

In conclusion, squirrels do eat mushrooms as part of their varied diets. While they might not seek out these fungi as a primary food source, they certainly include them in their meals if they're available. For mushroom foragers, this insight can be helpful, but one should always prioritize safety and proper identification to ensure a successful and rewarding harvest. Whether you're observing squirrels in your backyard or foraging in the woods, recognizing the natural interactions between these animals and mushrooms can deepen your understanding of the ecosystem.