Tomato-eating squirrels

DEAR JOAN: We've experienced something new this summer in my small patio.

Every year I plant a cherry tomato and have always had success in getting a bumper crop. This year, for the first time, squirrels have been stealing lots of tomatoes as soon as they ripen.

We're wondering if the drought is causing them to seek out moisture in fruits and vegetables when they can't find sufficient water.

Our neighbor two doors down has had the same problem for the first time this year. Have you ever heard of this before?

Patricia Motta

Bay Area

Squirrels are notorious tomato-nappers. (Courtesy of Rich Cordes)

DEAR PATRICIA: I think the drought is affecting squirrels, but probably not in the way you think. If you've never had tomato-thieving squirrels before, count yourself lucky. A good friend of mine has to grow all of her tomatoes in webs of chicken wire.

Squirrels love tomatoes, especially the ripe ones that you were just about to pick. Squirrels can be a nuisance in the garden, but they are no more likely to eat them in drought years than in nondrought years.

The squirrels, however, may have come into your neighborhood because of the drought. There are fewer food and water resources for all wildlife, so squirrels living on the edge of suburbia may have picked up their bags and moved in closer to irrigated lawns and backyard gardens.

Original post:
Tomato-eating squirrels