California squirrels show carnivorous behavior for the first time, scientists say

Warning: This story contains graphic images that may upset some readers. The project examines how California ground squirrels — native to the state’s grasslands — adapt their behavior in response to environmental changes, in this case an increase in the local vole population. “In the face of human insults such as climate change and drought, these animals are resilient and have the potential to adapt to live in a changing world.” Squirrels are an important part of California ecosystems, and understanding whether food discovery is a socially transmitted trait in these populations could provide key insights into how other species will adjust to shifting environments, Smith said. A California ground squirrel in Briones Regional Park in Contra Costa County feeds on a vole as an adaptive behavioral response to an increase in the local vole population, a new study found. Voles frequently experience surges in population growth and are considered pests, so having new predators such as California ground squirrels will help keep vole numbers under control, he said.